In a proactive move to bolster human rights education among youth, the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), supported by UNDP and Irish Aid, recently conducted a two-day engagement with school club members in Kabala and Kambia. The initiative aimed to fortify the existing Peace Clubs and empower students with essential knowledge on human rights and advocacy.
The event, held on June 5th and 6th, saw the participation of ten schools, including prominent institutions such as Kabala Secondary School, Kabala Christian Secondary School, and Ahmadiyya Muslim Agricultural Senior Secondary School. Attendees were taken through a series of presentations covering various aspects of human rights, including the mandate and functions of the Commission, the fundamental principles of human rights, climate change’s impact on rights, leadership, and advocacy skills.
One of the key highlights of the engagement was the formation of interim executives for the clubs, aimed at enhancing their operational efficiency. Each school coordinator received an office box file equipped with presentations, stationery, and brochures to facilitate the documentation of club activities.
Students expressed enthusiasm and commitment to utilizing the knowledge gained during the sessions to advocate for human rights and address pressing issues such as climate change. Abass B. Daramy, a pupil from Ahmadiyya Muslim Secondary School, highlighted the significance of advocacy skills and pledged to promote environmental conservation efforts among his peers.
Similarly, Isatu Tarawallie from Kabala Secondary School for Girls emphasized the importance of raising awareness about human rights issues and pledged to encourage more students to join the clubs.
Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq., Vice Chairperson of HRCSL, underscored the Commission’s commitment to transitioning from merely establishing clubs to strengthening them effectively. He emphasized the pivotal role of youth in advocating for human rights and expressed optimism that the knowledge imparted during the engagement would be translated into tangible actions within the clubs.
The initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a culture of human rights awareness and activism among Sierra Leonean youth, aligning with the recommendations of the African Union to promote rights education in schools. As these empowered students return to their respective institutions, they are poised to become catalysts for positive change in their communities, championing the cause of human rights and peace.
- ©HRCSL Communications Team
