05/06/2026
Champion of the Freedom 250 Essay Writing Competition-2026.
Martilie International Secondary School won the Finals at the Freedom Essay Writing Competition organized by the United States Embassy on Thursday, 4th June, 2026.
The writing stage of the competition started on 8th April to 11th May, 2026. The Martilie candidate worked through thick and thin by keeping a balance between the International Advanced Subsidiary Exams and the Freedom 250 Essay Competition. A selection and scrutiny team viewed the essays and selected excellent works of six schools inluding The Martilie International Secondary School, The Sierra Leone Grammar School, St. Josph Senior Secondary School, Dele-Peddle International, High School, and the Annie Walsh Memorial School, all from Freetown in Sierra Leone.
The academic battle speech delivery of essays started in earnest after a 20 minutes delay of the initial time that was hit by a harsh weather which caused delay in the arrival of presenters. Everyone in the room enjoyed the moment of listening to sound speakers who articulated the historical roles of the Amsrican Foundng Fathers, successes in the American dream of independence and more, and the impact of the same founding fathers on both the American people, nation building, and the world at large.
The judges asked relevant questions from speakers' statements and additional questions to prove the research level, knowledge, originality and composure of the presenters. Staff of the Embassy were fully represented by 2 judges, 1 moderator, and the Education Officer andbthe Charge'. It was an accommodating environment right through.
The Charge' who is running the embassy's affairs in the absence of the U.S. Ambassador appreciated the schools and speakers especially for joiining this year's Independence celebration of the United States of American which is full of activities unto to the D-Day of 4th July, 2026. The Charge' shared his personal thoughts and expereinces about Sierra Leone. He had a fruitful interraction with students from the six invited schools.
In the end, results were read for the first three winners:
*1st -Edward David Conteh of Martilie International Secondary School.
*2nd- The Sierra Leone Grammar School.
*3rd- The Annie Walsh Memorial School.
David's essay will be published on the U.S.Embassy's website and other U.S platforms based on the originality and structure.
However, all schools received certificates of Participation.
More photoes will be uploaded on this...