By State House Communications
State House, Freetown, Wednesday 17 January 2024 – His Excellency
President Dr Julius Maada Bio has received the newly elected executive of the
National Olympic Committee of Sierra Leone, NOC-SL, presented by the Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James Teima, to discuss their successes and challenges.
President of NOC-SL, Prince Vandy Sualley, thanked President Bio for making time to receive them, adding that it had always been a tradition for them to pay a courtesy visit and present the new leadership.
He said the Committee had also agreed to present the President with a plaque on behalf of the African Olympics Committee in recognition of his support and
contributions to games and sports.
Mr Sualley also presented an invitation letter for the upcoming Olympic Games,
scheduled to be held in Paris, France this year. During those games, he assured the President of their commitment to raising the country’s flag.
In his brief response, President Bio thanked and appreciated the Committee for the courtesy call while congratulating them on their new roles. He admonished them to do their best to ensure that they motivated other people looking forward to participating in the games.
Currently undergoing implementation in two pilot districts, Koinadugu and Pujehun, with support from UNFPA, the Ministry is actively engaging stakeholders, including PPASL, religious leaders, and local authorities. Kamara stressed the importance of training teachers to implement the curriculum effectively and recognized the potential of CSE in reducing teenage pregnancy.
Acknowledging the need for proper mechanisms to address reported cases of sexual harassment and abuse, Kamara emphasized that engagement with PPASL is a crucial step towards successful curriculum implementation, securing endorsements from key leaders.
Kamara also addressed the debate about making CSE a standalone subject, stating that discussions with the Minister and the Chief Executive Officer of MBSSE will be initiated. He concluded by urging individuals involved in child abuse to cease their actions, warning of strict legal consequences.
Adolphus E. T. Beckley, the Volunteer Development Coordinator at PPASL, stressed the importance of CSE in empowering young individuals to understand their rights and bodies. Expressing dissatisfaction with the limited implementation in two districts, Beckley called for a nationwide rollout and pledged PPASL’s support in capacity building for teachers and key personnel.
Commending the Ministry for its commitment to implementing CSE, Beckley called for support from Principals, teachers, and parents. He reiterated PPASL’s dedication to assisting the Ministry in effective CSE program implementation through capacity building and advocacy efforts. Beckley emphasized the significance of advocacy and education to dispel misconceptions and promote the benefits of CSE across Sierra Leone.
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