SVN LAUNCHES INTER-SCHOOL QUIZ AND DEBATE COMPETITION IN BARRI CHIEFDOM

Hassan Juana Koroma, Pujehun

The Steven Vision Network has officially launched an inter-school Quiz and Debate Competition aimed at promoting academic excellence, critical thinking, and encouraging environmentally healthy, spirit-filled competition among pupils and students in Barri Chiefdom, Pujehun District. The colourful launching ceremony, held at the Old Community Centre along Shenge Road in Potoru, brought together pupils, students, teachers, parents, community stakeholders, and education enthusiasts from across the chiefdom. The event served as a major highlight during the World Environment Day celebration, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to using education as a tool for sustainable development and positive youth engagement.

The competition gathered representatives from seven schools, including five primary schools and two junior secondary schools. In addition to the quiz and debate activities, participating primary schools also took part in a beauty and design contest, adding creativity and variety to the programme and giving pupils more opportunities to showcase their talents. Speaking at the official launch, Steven Unisa Mansaray—Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Steven Vision Network and sponsor of the initiative—stressed that education is the foundation for sustainable development and national progress. He explained that the quiz and debate competition was designed to provide a platform where young people can display their academic abilities, strengthen public speaking skills, and build confidence. “As an environmentalist, this initiative is intended to encourage pupils and students to take their studies seriously while promoting unity and healthy environmental interaction among schools within Barri Chiefdom,” Mansaray said.

He further noted that the competition is not solely about winning prizes, but about developing the minds of young people. “Through debating and quizzing, students will gain knowledge, confidence, and leadership qualities that will help them become responsible citizens in the future,” he added. Mansaray used the occasion to reaffirm that Steven Vision Network remains committed to supporting educational development and empowering young people through meaningful academic and social programmes both within and outside the chiefdom. He called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to continue supporting initiatives that contribute to children’s growth and development.

He emphasised that investing in education remains one of the most effective ways of preparing future leaders and addressing societal challenges, expressing hope that the competition will motivate students to work harder and strive for excellence. Chairman of the occasion, Ibrahim Borgiwa Swaray, also addressed participants and advised all quizzers and debaters to stay disciplined, focused, and determined throughout the competition. He encouraged students to view the competition as a learning opportunity rather than merely a contest for victory.

“Success comes through hard work, commitment, and discipline. I want all participants to remain focused on their studies and make the most of this opportunity. Whether you win or lose, the knowledge and experience you gain will be valuable throughout your educational journey,” Swaray said. He urged participants to respect one another, uphold the spirit of fair competition, and act as ambassadors of peace and unity within their schools and communities. As part of the programme, several awards and recognitions were announced for outstanding participants, including:

Best Qizzer, Sadia Primary School, Best Qizzer (Individual)RC Njalwahun Mohamed Kallon, Lansana Sillah, Best Debater, Sadia Secondary School

Fatmata Kpakiwa, Second Best Debater, Barri Islamic Secondary School. These recognitions were applauded by attendees, reflecting the high level of preparation and talent among students.

Many teachers and community members commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will motivate pupils to improve their academic performance while also developing essential communication skills. Participants expressed excitement and pledged to prepare adequately for the upcoming quiz and debate sessions. Several pupils noted that the programme would help them broaden their knowledge and interact with peers from other schools, strengthening unity and healthy competition across Barri Chiefdom.

The launch featured participation from several schools within Barri Chiefdom, including- Barri Islamic Secondary School,- Roman Catholic Primary School Njalwahun Barri, Roman Catholic Primary School Potoru,- Saadia Primary School Potoru,- New Harvest Primary School,- Pujehun District Primary School Potoru, Saadia Junior Secondary School, among others. With the successful launch, the competition is expected to continue across the coming sessions, offering pupils and students a structured platform to build confidence, improve communication skills, and demonstrate academic excellence while promoting positive values during the World Environment Day celebration.