The Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing held on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, provided updates on key government initiatives and programs and specifically highlighted efforts to strengthen civic education, honor national heroes, empower youth, and advance digital and vocational education. The following are the key highlights:
♦ Civic Education Seminar to Promote Democratic Principles
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, announced a two-day Civic Education Seminar organized in collaboration with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung-Germany. Scheduled for November 27–28, 2024, at the Multi-purpose Hall, Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, the seminar will focus on fostering a civic-minded society. Participants will engage in sessions on the rule of law, political participation, and the roles of democratic institutions.
♦ Tribute to Fallen Heroes of the November 26, 2023, Coup Attempt
Minister Bah paid tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives defending Sierra Leone during the November 26, 2023, coup attempt. On behalf of the government, he hailed their courage and sacrifice for national peace and stability. He also praised citizens for their patriotism in choosing peace over conflict and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding national unity.
♦ Advancing Higher Education through Digital Transformation
Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, shared updates on strides in digital education. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) will aid in digitizing universities and vocational institutions, enhancing digital skills, and expanding learning management systems to include Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The Commonwealth for Learning will support the ministry with digital platforms to promote distance learning, addressing infrastructural challenges in tertiary institutions.
The ministry is revamping TVET to meet labor market demands and address misconceptions about it being a “dropout option.” Initiatives include a UNDP-supported program to upskill the informal sector and a pilot project certifying skilled individuals. Additionally, a partnership with the National Skills Development Corporation of India will introduce online technical and soft skills training, further supporting professional development and national growth.
♦Youth Empowerment through Agriculture and Entrepreneurship
The Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Orman Bangura, highlighted several youth-focused initiatives. A new program will offer financial support of over NLE 2,000 for one year to young people venturing into agriculture, targeting graduates and entrepreneurs to foster youth participation in agribusiness. Under a recently launched Kekeh Loan Scheme, 200 Kekehs have been provided through a transparent process managed by contracted service providers. Citizens can access these Kekehs for NLE 65,000 each. The National Youth Service Act has been reviewed and awaits presidential assent. The revised scheme will now include graduates and non-graduates, with applications available online. Additionally, by 2025, 8,000 young people will receive monthly stipends of $100 through the Youth Commission.
♦ Transformational Impact of the Fishing Boats Scheme
Emiline Favour Turay, President of the Portee Progressive Ladies and a beneficiary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs’ Fishing Boats Scheme, shared her success story. A graduate of IPAM, she transitioned into entrepreneurship by acquiring a fishing boat, which has significantly improved her livelihood. She employs several women and uses the proceeds to support her family. Emiline encouraged other graduates to seize similar opportunities while pursuing their career aspirations.
© Ministry of Information and Civic Education
