President Bio Attends Disability And Orphaned Children’s 2025 National Debate Competition

His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has participated in the 2025 National Debate Competition, which was organized by special needs institutions and orphanage homes around Sierra Leone, demonstrating his desire to inclusive education and equal access for all children.

The event took place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Bo, and it brought together children with special needs and orphans from different locations to discuss critical issues related to inclusive education. Those who participated identified some of the problems they faced which has to do with restricted access to public transit, lack of parental assistance, and inaccessibility to public buildings.

Mohamed S. Conteh, Head Teacher of Paul School for the Blind in Bo, spoke on behalf of the participating institutions, praising the government’s continuous support and calling for further investment in education and building capacities for special needs educators nationally.

President Bio stated on his keynote address that the idea for organizing a debate for them came from a child with special needs at another event whom he encountered with. He explained that the debate gives young children a national stage to showcase their intelligence and ability.

“This debate marks the beginning of something great,” President Bio said. “You have all shown us your talents, your confidence, and your depth of understanding. This is a moment to celebrate your brilliance and your rightful place in national development.”

He commended the children, their teachers, and caregivers for their commitment calling the support staff and educators the true heroes “performing magic behind the scenes.” The President assured them that he will ensure that no child is left behind.

“All of you are our nation’s valuable assets. As a government, we are responsible for ensuring you are supported and given the chance to thrive. I would not be a good parent if I failed to protect and empower every citizen,” he said.

The government has already announced steps to promote inclusive education. The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and the Free Education Project Secretariat has launched the action plans in September 2024, to enhance inclusive education for students with special needs.

This project covered training approximately 300 teachers across several districts to act as Radical Inclusion Champions, providing equal access to education for underrepresented groups in the country.