“Change Your Attitude, Change The Nation”

JKM

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education has called on Sierra Leoneans to embrace a change in mindset and behavior as the cornerstone for national transformation. He made this passionate appeal during the Civic Series engagement held in Magburaka, Tonkolili District.

Addressing a cross-section of community stakeholders, students, and youth groups, Minister Bawoh said that true development begins when citizens take ownership of their country’s progress. He challenged Sierra Leoneans to move away from negative attitudes that hinder growth and unity.

“Change your attitude, change Sierra Leone,” he declared. “Nation-building starts with the individual. When citizens begin to act responsibly, serve with honesty, and uphold discipline, then the country will naturally prosper.”

He lamented that too often, citizens blame leaders for the nation’s challenges while ignoring their own civic duties.

“We elect our leaders, but as citizens, we must also ask ourselves — what role are we playing in building this nation? Leadership begins with each of us,” he said.

Deputy Minister Bawoh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civic education as a tool for promoting accountability, patriotism, and community participation.

He explained that the transformation of the Ministry of Information and Communication into the Ministry of Information and Civic Education reflects President Julius Maada Bio’s vision to deepen civic consciousness across the country.

“Our mandate is clear — to bring governance closer to the people and help them understand their role in it. Civic education is about empowering citizens with knowledge, so that they can engage meaningfully in national decision-making,” he emphasized.

He added that civic engagement is not limited to formal education, but extends to everyday actions, such as obeying laws, respecting public property, and supporting community development initiatives.

“Good citizens make good leaders. If we want a better future, we must start by changing our mindset and behavior today,” he noted.

The event, which brought together traditional leaders, youth representatives, women’s groups, and civil society organizations, served as an open platform for citizens to interact directly with government officials. Participants commended the ministry for initiating the Civic Series, and urged that similar sessions be held in other districts.

The Deputy Minister concluded by assuring the people of Tonkolili that the Ministry will continue to engage communities through radio programs, town hall meetings, and civic education clubs in schools to sustain the message of national responsibility.

“Civic education is not a one-day conversation,” he said. “It is a continuous process of shaping minds and building a culture of integrity, patriotism, and service to country.”

The Civic Series initiative is part of the Ministry’s nationwide campaign to promote civic awareness, encourage citizen participation, and strengthen democratic governance across Sierra Leone.