“Adopt-a-School” Initiative is the project of Associates Class of October 2011. The project aims at a reorientation of values in secondary schools by teaching students Nigerian history for practical nation-building through civics, problem solving and leadership skills.
The goal of the project is to raise awareness of the targeted youth with positive values and skills necessary to propel Nigeria forward. The Initiative is currently being piloted in select schools in Lagos State; however, the Class of October 2011 hopes that the effort could be adopted for a scalable expansion across Nigeria with partnership between the government and private sector agencies.
Currently, the targeted schools, for the pilot project, are: Birch Freeman Junior and Senior High Schools; Igbo Owu Junior and Senior Secondary Schools; Eko Boys Junior and Senior Secondary Schools; Ransome Kuti Memorial Junior Grammar School; St Joseph Senior Secondary School; and Mushin Community High school.
During the inaugural session, notable among the invited guests who inspired the students were Senior Fellows Jinmi Morgan and Asue Ighodalo.
At the Birch Freeman Secondary School, the Associates educated the students on the history of Nigeria while motivating them to be the best for the nation. To make one of the sessions exciting and lively, the students shared the excitement with Associate Bankole Wellington (Banky-W) and Wizkid – both widely recognized pop stars.
“I learned that our founding Fathers had a vision they tried to achieve before they died and when we become leaders we should continuetheir good works”- Cyril Success, JSS 2 student from Ransome Kuti Memorial School.
At another of the sessions, the participating students were requested to write an essay on their pledge to Nigeria. The ten best essays were rewarded with cash awards and the students were urged to remember their pledge to Nigeria.
The project is anticipated to be completed with a grand finale ceremony during which students and their teachers are to receive awards and gifts.
