By Sheku Putka Kamara
If you have been a constant reader of my articles, you are likely to know that I have shared similar views on countless occasions. I hold that view because I am optimistic that all of us have roles to play in making Sierra Leone a better place, but today, let’s start with football. It should normally end the thrust, but take this as some positive shift.
I will greatly argue that the local game of football has greatly been promoted, but hey, let’s talk about some of the issues. For the love of the game, thousands of people turn up to watch community leagues and that is welcoming, but the security and unruly nature of how things could get is worrisome. We may not need to dig deeper, but being that all of us should know these matters, let us remind ourselves. I will call on fans and supporters to respect the rule of the game. Aside the unwelcomed act of attacking referees, players and match officials, there are reports about traders being harassed or commuters and passers’ being subjected to some looting or what have you. Yes, we may not have the required security, but civility requires that we all do what is right. May we continue to do things in the best interest of the game and soon. Let us minimize, if not eradicate, and, or put an end to some of these vices.
From football and people, let us go into other forms of entertainment; music and comedy. Without a doubt, some new acts in Sierra Leone are making the headlines for some good reasons. What that tells us and maybe what it continues to tell us is that we do have some great talents in this country. Maybe the biggest challenge is management. I will not shift the goal post to that topic and so we could sort that some other time, but my proposition is that with the right management and if we are to take everything into consideration, we could go more places. Other nations do not have anything extra special. The discipline that they have is not unachievable, but let us hope that we get to some of those enviable heights anytime soon.
Let us also look into education? Fourah Bay College just announced that the Special English Exam for Communication applicants will take place on the 5th October 2024. This year, like past years…, both diploma and degree applicants are to write the exam. What that means is that the quality checks will now be universal. This makes sense for all the reasons because communication is a dynamic discipline. It requires greater composure to get things done and in doing so, the English Language does not have to be treated with levity. People that have studied Mass Communication at FBC will understand what it means to write the diagnostic exam. Goodluck to the new guys and it is hoped that they will defend the WASSCE and leave up to expectations. If not, I am not sure we would have a space for anyone that cannot score at least 40 and above. Do this to be on a safer side.
Another topical matter that I wish to resubmit is the issue of competence and the ability to make use of opportunities when given the chance. As a young person below 35, well 31 getting to 32 in June 2025 by God’s Grace, I have had to deal with several juniors and seniors that see me as this EXTRA GENIUS, but truth be told, I do not think that I’m a different being. Maybe we can just agree and say that God has blessed my media and communication journey and so without a doubt, I am a master in my areas, but that is not the issue. I have actually provided countless opportunities for people that need help, jobs, placements etc, but I am disappointed that a good number of them will either not leave up to expectations or may just abandon things and not communicate. That is how terrible things could get. Today, my mind does not feel like writing thousands of words, but just if I get to a thousand and over, just know that I am writing these subjects from the heart. These are inside thoughts and so kindly understand. I hope all of us will continue to make use of opportunities when given the chance (s). Please!
And maybe there is no way I could write on thoughts without touching on some of the trending topics in Sierra Leone as I write. From flooding almost everywhere to recent disasters; collapsed buildings, building in water ways and disaster-prone areas etc. We should be bold enough to assert and affirm that these things are not new, but may be what should be more concerning is the fact that we know what to do, but it’s like we always shift posts to suit convenience and that is the problem. Whiles my heart goes out to all of the lost souls and families, let us begin to do the right things as Sierra Leoneans. In fact, I am on record to have asserted that some people actually have no business in Freetown. Jokingly and obviously certainly, I am fond of telling people that had it not been for FBC, I could have still continued to stay in my Sweet Lungi and do my thing, but that said, it is high time we all prioritized matters of utmost significance. Like me, if you believe that what is right is right and that, that which is wrong is wrong, may we all continue to do what is right.
I will end on a quick note to send this message to central government. They say; save the best for last? I hope so. As December approaches, we are looking forward to an improved economy. To say that things are tight and difficult for a good number of people is a painful elaboration of the obvious. Even the known big spenders may have lost those titles for obvious reasons, but I think all of this boils down to price control and the skyrocketing nature of goods and services. We need a positive shift anytime soon in those directions just so that the hardship would and or could be minimized if not totally eradicated. May we get there soon.
It is on this note that I have decided to end today’s Putka on Expo. Continue to read Expo Times on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and do not forget to be getting a copy of our monthly Expo Magazine. You’d be glad you did. Until then, blessings from, Sheku Putka!
