In order to commemorate “The Day of the African Child”, Aid Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Sierra Leone, a non-governmental organization has on Friday 14/06/2024 organized a Youthful Mock Parliament Session in the Chamber of the Sierra Leone Parliament. The theme for this year’s Day of the African Child was “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is now”.
The Mock Youth Parliament attracted several personalities including school going children.
In his welcome address to the youth, the Deputy Speaker of the Sierra Leone Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh appreciated the organizers and noted that civic education is important for the young generations that are coming up.
“You will be taking the mantle of leadership that will guide this country to the next step,” he said and went on underscore the duties and responsibilities that are expected of the young generation.
The dynamic Deputy Speaker concluded by informing the youth of the roles and responsibilities of a Member of Parliament including legislation, representation and oversight.
The Speaker of the Mock Parliament, Momodu Barrie in addressing the House said young people, including young adolescents need information, values and skills to understand their own sexuality.
“Sexual and reproductive health rights would enable youth to make firm decisions in relation to their own bodies and sexuality”, he said.
The Speaker further stated that Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) could be provided in schools as well as out-of-schools by teachers or peers. “It is human rights based on a gender transformative approach, promoting citizenship, an understanding of the evolving capacities of individuals, and sex positivity,” he affirmed.
The Mock Speaker commended the Administration of Parliament for creating a memorable and safer space for them in making their voices heard.
The Mock Minister of Education, Emmanuel Emmanuel, in his statement in the Chamber of Parliament said Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) should be urgency and a necessity in making CSE a priority in the educational system.
“In all of these, let me emphasize that parents and religious leaders are needed urgently in popularizing and promoting CSE.” He also underscored the statistics on teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and gender-based violence.
He highlighted the gaps in the current education framework and spoke on the the need for an introduction of CSE in schools.
Mock MPs from both sides of the aisles debated rigorously on the subject matter before the House and proffered solutions to enhance the survival, growth and development of children, adolescents and youth in the Republic of Sierra Leone.
By Parliamentary and Public Relations Department
