By: Kadiatu Sankoh
On 16th June 2025, the Civic Day Series in Kenema kicked off with a vibrant Inter-School Quiz and Debate competition, featuring seven secondary schools from the district. The event, aimed at assessing students’ knowledge in civic education, drew participation from Holy Rosary Secondary School, Sierra International Academy, Abson Progressive Academy, Ansarul Islamic Secondary School, Islamic Secondary School, Government Secondary School, and Community Initiative Academy.
The competition was divided into two segments: Quiz and Debate. The quiz tested the students’ understanding of Kenema’s local history and culture, as well as broader national issues in governance and civic life.
The quiz segment consisted of three rounds of challenging questions. At the end of the competition, Ansarul Islamic Secondary School emerged as the winner, scoring 19 points, represented by Abubakar S. Kamara. Government Secondary School followed closely as the runner-up with 16 points, represented by James Emmanuel Bundeh. Sierra International Academy and Holy Rosary Secondary School also ranked among the top four.
These four schools progressed to the debating segment, which spanned three rounds and tackled topical national issues, such as the importance of national census, constitutional review, corruption, and taxation.
After two rigorous rounds, Government Secondary School and Sierra International Academy advanced to the final round, debating the motion: “Corruption in School Administration is a Major Barrier to Quality Education in Sierra Leone.”
Momoh Keifala of Sierra International Academy was crowned the Best Debater, scoring 71 points. Mboyawa John Delleh of Government Secondary School secured second place with 70 points, reflecting the close and competitive nature of the final.
This Inter-School Quiz and Debate aligns with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s Free Quality Education (FQE) Programme, which aims to strengthen human capital development across Sierra Leone. It also supports his vision of deepening civic education among the country’s youths.
The winners and runners-up received cash prizes and customized school items, including scientific calculators, school bags, and exercise books.
The event not only celebrated academic excellence, but also reinforced the value of civic awareness and national consciousness among students in Kenema.