Playwright Haffner Challenges Students to Re-evaluate History To Unravel Their Future

Playwright Haffner Challenges Students to Re-evaluate History To Unravel Their Future 

Charlie Haffner, the acclaimed Sierra Leonean playwright, oral historian, and cultural advocate who founded the Freetown Players, challenged students in the Faculty of Communication, Media and Broadcasting to re-evaluate the teaching, understanding, and application of history in fostering civic responsibility and national identity.

In his guest lecture, “The Historical Consciousness of Drama in Civic Education,” Haffner utilized his four decades of experience in theatre and cultural activism to assert that history transcends a mere collection of past events, functioning instead as a vital force that links individuals to a collective national identity.

Addressing an attentive audience of students and lecturers, Haffner encouraged young people to move beyond the rote memorization of historical facts, advocating for history to be used as a critical instrument for inquiry, reflection, and civic awareness.

He stated, “History is a bridge between who we are and who we are becoming,” urging students to recognize their role as active participants in shaping Sierra Leone’s democratic trajectory.

Haffner is widely recognized for his pioneering role in leveraging theatre as a vehicle for social transformation within Sierra Leone and internationally. His work with the Freetown Players consistently integrates oral tradition, drama, music, and satire to address critical social and political issues concerning governance, identity, and civic education.

A central theme of the lecture was a robust appeal for civic responsibility. Haffner questioned the depth of citizens’ understanding regarding national symbols, such as the anthem and pledge. He posited that genuine patriotism must extend beyond mere symbolism, evolving into what he termed “embedded patriotism”—a profound emotional and intellectual dedication to nation-building.

The veteran dramatist further emphasized that empathy and civic awareness are not abstract concepts but practical competencies essential for democratic participation, particularly in a developing nation like Sierra Leone. He advised students to connect their historical knowledge with tangible civic activities, including voter registration, community involvement, and advocating for institutional reform.

Haffner stressed, “Without historical consciousness, civic education becomes empty,” urging educational institutions to solidify the teaching of history as the bedrock of responsible citizenship.

The presentation also showcased Haffner’s extensive creative portfolio, referencing his long-running production, ATUNDA AYENDA, as an exemplary model for simplifying complex social issues and making them publicly accessible. He demonstrated how integrating folklore, music, and satire allows theatre to function as a potent mechanism for human rights awareness, cultural pride, and societal change.

The session concluded with a productive, interactive question-and-answer segment. The high level of audience engagement demonstrated significant intellectual stimulus and appreciation for the unique synthesis of academic discussion and cultural narrative.

In his closing remarks, Haffner delivered a final directive: that civic education must be designated a core subject in schools to cultivate a more informed, engaged, and responsible citizenry in Sierra Leone. The event concluded reflectively, inspiring students to not only study Sierra Leone’s history but also commit to actively shaping its future.