By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu – Bo City
The Resident Minister for the Southern Region, Hon. Chief John Abu, has emphasized the importance of strengthening civic education as a means of promoting democratic governance, accountable leadership, and improved public service delivery, describing it as a key driver of national development.
He made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Annual Staff Retreat organized by the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED) in Bo City. The retreat was held under the theme: “Civic Education and Engagement: A Catalyst for Service Delivery” and brought together government officials, public servants, development partners, traditional leaders, civil society representatives, and members of the media to discuss strategies for enhancing civic education and democratic participation across Sierra Leone.
Among the dignitaries present were NaCCED Chairman Mr. Joseph Munda Bindi; Principal Executive Adviser to the President and Head of Public Sector Reform, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima; Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Mr. Bockarie Aziz Bawoh; Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Edward Kpakra; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Mr. Andrew Kamara; Member of Parliament Hon. Moijuel; Chairman of the Bo District Council, Mr. Victor Kosseh Hindowa; representative of the Regent Chief of Kakua Chiefdom; NaCCED staff; invited guests; and members of the press.
Addressing participants, Hon. Chief John Abu expressed appreciation to the leadership of NaCCED for inviting him to the retreat and commended the institution for its continued efforts in promoting civic awareness, democratic values, national cohesion, and responsible citizenship.
He noted that the annual retreat provides an important opportunity for NaCCED staff and stakeholders to reflect on achievements, share experiences, strengthen institutional capacity, and develop practical strategies to improve the delivery of civic education programmes across the country.
The Resident Minister described civic education as a foundation for good governance and sustainable democracy, noting that meaningful national development can only be achieved when citizens understand their constitutional rights, responsibilities, and role in shaping society.
According to him, an informed citizenry is better positioned to participate effectively in democratic processes, engage constructively with public institutions, respect the rule of law, promote peaceful coexistence, and hold public officials accountable through lawful means.
“Civic education empowers citizens with the knowledge, values, and skills needed to participate effectively in governance and contribute positively to national development,” he stated.
Hon. Abu further explained that democracy flourishes when citizens actively participate in decision-making processes and embrace values such as peace, tolerance, respect for diversity, and constructive dialogue within their communities.
He called on public servants, civic educators, and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to expand civic education programmes nationwide, stressing that improved understanding of governance issues would help strengthen public trust, enhance citizen engagement, and improve service delivery.
The Resident Minister reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment, under the leadership of President Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to strengthening democratic institutions, promote accountability, protecting human rights, and advancing inclusive governance.
He also acknowledged NaCCED’s strategic role in complementing government efforts by educating citizens about their civic duties and encouraging active participation in national development.
Hon. Abu encouraged participants to maximize the opportunity provided by the retreat by sharing innovative ideas, learning from one another, and developing practical approaches that would strengthen civic education initiatives across Sierra Leone.
He expressed optimism that the outcomes of the retreat would contribute to stronger community engagement, deeper public understanding of democratic governance, and improved service delivery.
The NaCCED Annual Staff Retreat forms part of the institution’s ongoing efforts to build staff capacity and enhance civic education programmes aimed at promoting responsible citizenship, democratic participation, and effective governance throughout Sierra Leone.
The Resident Minister’s message reinforces the view that informed and engaged citizens are essential to sustaining democracy and achieving national development goals.