By: Jrst. ARUNA Mohamed.
The environmental organization, Earth Guardians Sierra Leone, has successfully concluded a two-day Inter-Secondary School Environmental Quiz and Debate Competition held on March 13th and 14th, 2026, in Bonthe District.
The atmosphere in Bonthe was filled with excitement, intellect, and a strong sense of environmental consciousness as the competition provided a platform for pupils to engage on pressing environmental and social issues while strengthening their public speaking and critical thinking skills.
Hosted at the Bonthe Municipal Council Hall, the second edition of the competition brought together bright young minds from ten schools, including five primary and five secondary institutions across the district. The initiative aimed to promote environmental awareness, critical thinking, and effective communication while empowering students to become advocates for sustainable living.
The highlight of the event was a thought-provoking debate on the motion: “Plastic in the ocean is not responsible for marine life depletion, but human behavior is.” Participants demonstrated exceptional analytical abilities, exploring the complex relationship between pollution, human actions, and marine ecosystems. Their arguments reflected a deep understanding of environmental challenges facing Sierra Leone and the global community.
Throughout the two-day event, pupils also participated in environmental quizzes that tested their knowledge of climate change, conservation, and sustainable practices. The sessions proved both competitive and educational, fostering teamwork, confidence, and intellectual growth among participants.
Teachers, local authorities, and community members commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, particularly for coastal communities like Bonthe that continue to face the effects of environmental degradation.
In his keynote address, the National Coordinator of Earth Guardians Sierra Leone, Mr. Amara Jones, described the event as more than just a competition, emphasizing that it represents “a celebration of knowledge, leadership, and responsibility toward our environment.” He noted that Earth Guardians is a global youth-led movement dedicated to empowering young people to take active roles in protecting the planet.
Jones highlighted that, across Sierra Leone, the organization has been engaging schools and communities through initiatives such as environmental education, mangrove restoration, beekeeping for biodiversity conservation, and climate awareness programs. According to him, these efforts are aimed at raising a generation that understands the value of nature and is prepared to safeguard it.
He further stressed that the quiz and debate competition serves as a practical demonstration of this mission, equipping students with the skills to think critically, communicate effectively, and become advocates for environmental protection.
Addressing the broader environmental context, Jones pointed out that both globally and within Sierra Leone, communities are facing serious challenges, including deforestation, pollution, poor waste management, biodiversity loss, and the growing impacts of climate change. He warned that rising temperatures, flooding, and land degradation are clear indicators that urgent action is needed.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism, stating that hope lies in the young people. He encouraged students to see themselves as agents of change, capable of influencing their communities and driving sustainable practices. Drawing on moral and spiritual perspectives, he reminded participants of the responsibility to care for the Earth, noting that environmental stewardship is not only a civic duty but also a moral obligation.
He concluded by urging students to take the knowledge gained from the competition beyond the classroom, using it to inspire action and contribute meaningfully to environmental protection efforts.
He commended all participating schools for their dedication and enthusiasm. He reiterated the importance of youth involvement in environmental protection, stressing that behavioral change remains a critical factor in addressing ecological challenges.
The competition ended on a high note with the presentation of certificates to outstanding schools and participants. The Islamic Call Society Primary School emerged as the winner of the quiz competition, while Centennial Secondary School won the debate. Both schools received a cash prize of NLe 3,000 each.
Beyond the awards and recognition, the event left a lasting impact igniting a sense of responsibility and inspiring students to become true “guardians” of the Earth.
As the curtains fall on this year’s edition, the initiative continues to resonate, reinforcing the message that the future of the environment lies in the hands of informed and empowered youth.