Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has urged schools, parents, and communities to unite in protecting Sierra Leone’s children from the growing influence of harmful street cultures, including the abuse of substances such as tramadol and kush.
Speaking at the Fransrie Junior Academy prize-giving ceremony last Friday, Minister Sackey delivered a heartfelt message that he described as “a call to action, not just for the school, but for our entire nation.”
“We often carry our children, but as the wise Akan saying goes, ‘A child who is carried on the back will not know how far the journey is.’ The journey ahead is long, and it is time we walk it together, clearing the path of the dangers that threaten their future,” he said.
In his address, the Minister shared the story of Abu, “a bright and curious son of Salone,” whose potential was dimmed by exposure to drugs. He warned that this reality is “creeping into our primary schools,” and must be urgently addressed by all sectors of society.
“Education is the armor we give our children to protect their minds. It is our most powerful weapon against this darkness. However, this armor must be buckled on at school and reinforced at home,” he emphasized.
Minister Sackey called on schools to act as vigilant guardians, ensuring that learning environments remain safe and nurturing. He also reminded parents that they are the first teachers, urging them to “have a louder, more loving conversation than the one the street is having.”
Addressing students, he encouraged them to make wise choices and to be “the captains of their souls,” practicing good citizenship through kindness, respect, and care for their environment.
The Minister praised the prize recipients, describing their achievements as a testament to the strong partnership between teachers, parents, and children.
He closed with a powerful metaphor:
“A thriving forest doesn’t happen by accident. A single poisonous vine can strangle the mightiest tree. Now, let me ask you, what vines are we allowing to grow around our children? And what will we do together today to cut them down?”
Minister Sackey concluded by inviting the public to join the ongoing conversation about how to strengthen Sierra Leone’s education system and protect the next generation.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
