Barrow Kunda Lower Basic School in the Wuli West District of Upper River Region on July 16th 2009 held its first Speech Day and Prize Giving Ceremony, at the schools’ ground.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Nfamara Jawneh, the Secretary-General of Beakanyang, also an ex-pupil of the school who was the Guest Speaker at the occasion, commended the school management for the initiative.

He described the move as a step in the right direction, adding that such forums will enable parents to have first hand information regarding the performance of their children. Jawneh advised the children to take their learning seriously by working hard in school.

“You are the future of this community, therefore if we are to be assured of any development here in years to come you must work hard in school sooner than later,” he advised.

He applauded the teachers of the school for their hard work and dedication to duties.

Mr. Jawneh spoke at length on the need for children to have good morale.

The forum enabled the Guest Speaker to make comparison of his days at school and today.

He also encouraged parents to keep sending their children to school.

Speaking earlier, Mr. Sambou Sanneh, who deputised for the Head Teacher of the school revealed that the move was done in recognition of the hard work of the students, thus encouraging others to emulate them.

According to him, this year the school has registered so many success stories, including extracurricular activities.

He cited the introduction of inter-house sports for the first time in eight years, scout camp, as well as establishment of mothers’ club.

For his part, Lancho Barrow, the Chairman of the Parent Teachers Association hailed the school administration for the initiative.

“We have witnessed so many programmes in this school but this is the first time we are witnessing speech day and prize giving ceremony,” he said.

He appealed to the school to maintain this historic activity.

Lamin Touray, a student representative delivered the vote of thanks, while Mr. Arafang Janneh gave the closing remarks.

Prizes such as set boxes, exercise books, pens, pencils, and rulers were among the prizes awarded to deserving pupils. 

The occasion ended with a party organised by the school for both pupils and the invited guests.