By George M.O. Williams
His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and proud alumnus of Bo Government Secondary School (Bo School), was the distinguished guest at the annual Speech Day and Prize-Giving Ceremony held on Friday, April 18, 2025. Organized by the Old Bo Boys Association (OBBA), the event brought together a cross-section of Sierra Leonean society, including students, educators, traditional leaders, alumni, diplomats, and citizens.
The historic gathering on Bo School’s grounds celebrated unity, pride, and progress. President Bio’s participation held profound personal significance as he reflected on his formative years at the institution and its influence on his leadership journey. “I will never get tired of attending Bo School activities,” he shared. “When children see the President coming to their school, it inspires them to learn. If we are successful today, it is because of Bo School, which paved the way for us through discipline and hard work.”
A Commitment to Human Capital Development
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to Human Capital Development, describing it as a deliberate mission inspired by his own journey from Bo School to the presidency. “I chose human capital development because I believe in creating opportunities for every child. It doesn’t matter where they come from; every child deserves the chance to gain knowledge and succeed,” he emphasized.
Highlighting Bo School’s legacy as a national institution fostering unity and academic excellence, President Bio praised its role in bringing together students from diverse regions and backgrounds, building the foundation for national cohesion. “Bo School is not just an institution; it is a family,” he stated.
Recognizing the school’s strides in technology and innovation, particularly its focus on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), he encouraged students to embrace digital tools to compete in the global arena.
Empowering Girls and Promoting Equality
President Bio lauded his wife, First Lady Mrs. Fatima Bio, for her advocacy work through the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. He urged male students to support the empowerment of women and girls, stating, “The future will be bright when we bring women and children along and support them.”
Guest of Honour Applauds Educational Legacy
The ceremony’s Guest of Honour, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Wang Qing, expressed his joy at joining the OBBA celebration, praising the strength and unity of the Bo School community. He commended the school’s enduring excellence and highlighted the strong bilateral relations between China and Sierra Leone, particularly in education.
Ambassador Wang revealed that the China Ambassador’s Scholarship Programme has benefited many Sierra Leonean students, including 20 pupils from Bo School last year. “I look forward to a growing relationship between China and Bo School,” he said.
Principal’s Remarks and Awards Presentation
Acting Principal of Bo School, Mr. Kosia Michael S. 4208, expressed gratitude to President Bio and other dignitaries for their support, noting the institution’s heritage and national significance. He provided updates on external examination performance and ongoing infrastructure projects.
The event concluded with the awarding of academic prizes and recognition of excellence across various disciplines, reinforcing Bo School’s reputation as one of Sierra Leone’s premier institutions of learning.