HON. PESSIMA LAUNCHES DEBATING SOCIETY AT ERNEST BAI KOROMA UNIVERSITY PORT LOKO CAMPUS

Honourable Racheal Mariatu Sesay Pessima has officially launched the Debate, Literary and Cultural Society at the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), Port Loko Campus, calling it a critical step toward developing informed, articulate, and culturally grounded leaders for Sierra Leone. Speaking at the launch ceremony attended by the Vice-Chancellor, staff, student leaders, and members of the media, Hon. Pessima described the new society as “more than an extra-curricular activity” and “an investment in leadership development, cultural preservation, and intellectual growth.” The event was held under the theme “Knowledge, Expression, Impact: Engaging Minds, Enriching Culture, Empowering the Future,” which Hon. Pessima said speaks directly to the role of education in nation-building.

“Knowledge is the foundation upon which progress is built,” she told the gathering. “Universities are not merely institutions for obtaining certificates; they are centers where ideas are developed, critical thinking is nurtured, and future leaders are prepared.” Hon. Pessima stressed, however, that knowledge must be matched with expression. She noted that debate, literature, and cultural engagement provide students with platforms to challenge assumptions, inspire change, and build confidence, creativity, and leadership skills. “When knowledge is combined with expression, the result is impact,” she said. “Every great movement, innovation, and social transformation began with individuals who dared to think critically and express their ideas with firm conviction.”

She urged students to use the society to sharpen their intellectual abilities and discover their talents, adding that cultural identity remains a source of strength for national unity and development. “Through literature, storytelling, music, dance, and debate, we preserve our history while shaping our future,” Hon. Pessima stated. The society, according to organizers, will create opportunities for constructive dialogue, appreciation of diversity, and a deeper understanding of Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage.

Hon. Pessima congratulated the student leadership for their vision and commitment, emphasizing that Sierra Leone’s future depends on young people who are “informed, articulate, innovative, and committed to positive change.” “Through knowledge, expression, and impact, we can engage minds, enrich culture, and empower future generations,” she concluded. The launch ceremony ended with goodwill messages from university authorities and student leaders, who pledged to support the society’s programs.