_Bo Government Secondary School, Southern Region, Wednesday, 24 January 2024 – His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio participated in the global celebration of the International Day of Education, held this year in Bo City under the theme: “Learning for Lasting Peace.” This national event, the sixth in a series that commenced on January 22, gathered school-going pupils from across the country, government ministers and their deputies, stakeholders in the education sector, and local and international partners.
President Bio, in his address, emphasized his government’s commitment to education as a fundamental human right, a public good, and a shared responsibility. He reflected on his own experiences as a pupil at Bo Government Secondary School, expressing profound nostalgia and gratitude for the values of discipline, integrity, and purpose instilled during his time there.
Highlighting the importance of education as an ongoing journey, President Bio stressed the need to preserve the communal spirit within the nation. He acknowledged the vital role communities play in shaping responsible and productive citizens and urged the audience to maintain a commitment to fostering an educational landscape that imparts not only knowledge but also values such as unity, respect, and empathy—the foundations of lasting peace.
Delving into the theme, President Bio underscored the multifaceted nature of education for lasting peace. He emphasized the importance of challenging harmful ideologies, bridging cultural divides, and fostering empathy and understanding within communities. The President urged collective dedication to nurturing minds and spirits, empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential, and building a society where every voice is heard, every dream valued, and every child given the opportunity to soar.
Mokhlesur Rahman, Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank, addressed the significance of the event, describing school-going pupils as the future leaders of Sierra Leone. He expressed optimism that the celebration would contribute to the government’s vision for improved access to quality education. Rahman assured continued support from the World Bank for education, citing ongoing projects focused on both basic education and skills development. He commended President Bio’s government for its outstanding school curriculum and acknowledged the country’s transformative journey towards achieving its educational objectives.
The event featured performances by the Milton Margai School for the Blind in Freetown and the Bo School for the Blind, as well as the recognition of national, regional, and district best pupils in public examinations and deserving school authorities.
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