Choithrams Champions Education Through 2025 Prize for Academic Excellence and Scholarship Ceremony

n a heartening demonstration of corporate citizenship and community empowerment, Choithrams, one of Sierra Leone’s most respected companies, proudly supported the 2025 Prize for Academic Excellence Award and Scholarship Ceremony, held in the Wellington Industrial Area. The event, organized to celebrate outstanding student performance in the 2024 National Primary School Examination (NPSE) and Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young learners and families across Constituency 115.

The ceremony took place on Monday, June 16, at the Harry Rogers Memorial Hall, located within the WMA Complex—a familiar community hub in Wellington. Organized in partnership with Hon. Lawyer Alpha Amadu Bah, Member of Parliament for Constituency 115, and Councillor Isata Tejan Leigh, the initiative brought together a wide array of stakeholders including parents, teachers, local chiefs, youth leaders, civil society advocates, and private sector representatives.
Supporting Excellence Where It Matters Most

At the heart of the event was a powerful message: excellence must be recognized and nurtured, particularly in underserved communities where educational barriers remain high. Choithrams’ financial and logistical support was critical to the event’s success. The company funded the production of certificates and provided cash prizes totaling NLe 60,000, directly benefiting dozens of high-performing pupils.

The awards recognized not only academic achievement but also resilience, discipline, and commitment—qualities that many students demonstrated despite the challenges of limited resources, large classroom sizes, and, in some cases, unstable home environments.
Choithrams’ CEO: “Education is our Shared Investment”

Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Mr. Harish Agnani, CEO of Choithrams, reiterated the company’s belief in education as a pillar for national development and a core focus of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

“Education is the cornerstone of a progressive and just society. It is not only about passing exams—it’s about building the minds that will shape tomorrow’s Sierra Leone,” Mr. Agnani said. “At Choithrams, we are deeply invested in the future of this country. Supporting these young achievers in Wellington—a community where our own operations are rooted—is both an honor and a responsibility we take seriously.”

He went on to describe the initiative as part of a broader mission to uplift communities through sustainable impact, particularly in the areas of health, education, and food security.
Lawmaker Commends Choithrams and Calls for Replication

Hon. Lawyer Alpha Amadu Bah, who played a key role in organizing the event, praised Choithrams for its unwavering support to the constituency and called on other corporate entities to follow suit.

“This event is a shining example of what can be achieved when business and leadership come together with a shared vision,” he said. “It’s not just about rewarding students—it’s about motivating entire families, strengthening community bonds, and planting seeds for future excellence.”

He highlighted the strategic importance of engaging the private sector in supporting Sierra Leone’s educational priorities, particularly in low-income areas where government resources are often stretched.
Councillor Leigh: “We’re Sending a Message of Hope”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Councillor Isata Tejan Leigh stressed the psychological and social impact of the scholarships on both students and parents.

“Some of these children walk long distances to school every day, often without breakfast or adequate supplies. Today, we are telling them that their efforts are seen, valued, and celebrated,” she noted. “This recognition sends a message of hope—not just to the awardees, but to every child in this community striving for a better tomorrow.”

She also expressed optimism that the initiative would inspire more local organizations and leaders to invest in youth development.
Emotional Moments and Proud Parents

As the names of the awardees were called and certificates presented, the hall was filled with applause, ululation, and tears of joy. For many parents, it was the first time their children had received public recognition for academic achievement.

“I didn’t expect this,” said Fatmata Kargbo, mother of one of the awardees. “We struggle every day just to keep our children in school. This award gives us strength and reminds my daughter that her hard work means something.”

Award recipients expressed gratitude and renewed determination to aim even higher. Several said the recognition had boosted their confidence and confirmed that education is the path to a better life.
A Community Inspired

Beyond the formalities, the ceremony also featured cultural performances, student poetry recitals, and motivational speeches from local educators and alumni of the same schools. The atmosphere was one of unity, pride, and collective ambition.

As the event drew to a close, stakeholders agreed that the ceremony had become more than an awards presentation—it was a powerful community-building moment that reaffirmed the importance of partnership in driving social change.

“This is not just about today,” Mr. Agnani concluded. “It’s about ensuring these children have the encouragement and support they need for every step of the journey ahead.”

Looking Ahead

With this successful event, the Wellington community has set a precedent for what is possible through collaboration. The Prize for Academic Excellence and Scholarship Ceremony is expected to become an annual event, continuing to inspire generations of learners and signaling the power of unity in advancing education.

As Sierra Leone continues to work toward universal education, improved learning outcomes, and reduced dropout rates, efforts like these provide a replicable model of how private sector engagement can meaningfully complement public sector goals—with young people at the center.