By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Bo Civic Day Series kicked off on Monday, 13th October 2025, at the De Wizzad Hall along Dembala Road in Bo, bringing together hundreds of students, teachers, and civic enthusiasts to celebrate knowledge, patriotism, and youth engagement. The event, organized under the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, showcased young talents from various schools in Bo District competing in rounds of civic and national knowledge.
After intense rounds of competition, Jestina Smith, representing the Queens of the Rosary Secondary School (QRS), emerged as the overall winner of the Civic Day Quiz Competition, earning thunderous applause from the excited audience. Tahiar Ahmadiyya Junior Secondary School in Bo secured the second position in the Quiz, while Mathew Kojor of Christ the King’s College (CKC) finished third. Bo Commercial Junior Secondary School followed closely in fourth place after the final round.
The hall was filled with excitement as students, teachers, parents, and community leaders cheered on their favorite contestants. The audience commended the initiative for giving young people a platform to express their understanding of civic values, national identity, and the responsibilities of citizenship.
Speaking shortly after being announced as the winner, an emotional Jestina Smith expressed her appreciation to the Ministry of Information and Civic Education for organizing such a meaningful Quiz event. “I am truly grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “This competition has helped me understand my role as a citizen and reminded me of the importance of being an active participant in nation-building. I thank my teachers and schoolmates for believing in me and supporting me throughout this journey.”
The event attracted several dignitaries, including education authorities, local council representatives, and members of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education. In their remarks, they praised the participants for their impressive performances and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to deepening civic awareness among young people.
Mr. Emmanuel Musa, a teacher from Christ the King’s College, described the competition as “an eye-opener for students and a practical way to revive civic learning in schools.” He said the initiative was not only about winning but about shaping informed and responsible citizens who understand their civic duties.
Representing the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Madam Marian Magdalena Bangura expressed delight over the turnout and the enthusiasm of the students. She noted that the Civic Day Series is part of the ministry’s broader effort to promote civic consciousness, critical thinking, and national pride among Sierra Leonean youths. “When we empower our young people with civic knowledge, we are strengthening the foundation of democracy and unity in our nation,” she remarked.
Members of the audience, including parents and community stakeholders, also praised the ministry for organizing such an engaging and educational program in Bo. “It’s been a long time since we’ve seen young people so passionate about civic education,” said Mr. Foday Mansaray, a local community leader. “This program should continue in other districts so more students can benefit.”
The Bo Civic Day Series concluded with a vibrant atmosphere of celebration as students, teachers, and officials posed for photos with the winners. Many expressed hopes that the initiative would become an annual event, inspiring more young people to learn about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of active citizenship.
Through programs like the Civic Day Series, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education continues to play a vital role in shaping a more informed, patriotic, and participatory generation of Sierra Leoneans.
