President Bio Honored for Advancing Gender Equality and Education

February 23, 2025

President Julius Maada Bio has been recognized with two prestigious African awards for his leadership in gender equality and education.

He received the African HeForShe Champion of the Year 2024 and the Presidential African Intelligence Award 2024 in acknowledgment of his efforts to promote women's empowerment, increase female representation in governance, and improve education in Sierra Leone.

Expressing his gratitude, President Bio stated, “I am excited to announce that today I received the African HeForShe Champion of the Year award along with the Presidential African Intelligence Award for 2024.”

The awards were presented by former Malawian President Dr. Joyce Banda and Princess Dr. Ocansey, founder of the Nakotech Centre for Excellence.

President Bio’s administration has been widely recognized for implementing policies such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, expanding access to education, and ensuring free STEM education for girls. His Radical Inclusion Policy has also allowed pregnant students to continue their education without discrimination.

During his acceptance speech, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to gender equality, stating, "When women succeed, nations thrive." He dedicated the awards to his late sister, mother, and wife.

The ceremony also featured discussions on African leadership in gender equality, migration, and initiatives supporting African students pursuing STEM education in the U.S. The event was attended by government officials, international diplomats, and

dignitaries.