A non-governmental organisation, the Mastermind Community Foundation, has launched an initiative to empower young people with key life skills necessary for their growth and development.

During a one-day sensitisation programme for Lagos State public schools held at the Immaculate Heart Comprehensive Senior High School hall in Maryland, Lagos, students were equipped with emotional and social intelligence skills.

The President of the Mastermind Community Foundation, Vivianne Oghene, emphasised that the initiative aims to equip in-school youths with the skills to manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and make informed decisions.

The workshop, themed “Mastering Emotional and Social Intelligence for Holistic Success,” has already commenced in five government schools in Lagos. It will involve facilitators educating students on the importance of emotional and social intelligence.

Calling for support and collaboration from the government, corporate bodies, and individuals, Oghene noted that the foundation plans to expand the initiative to other schools, including private institutions and those in other states.

“We are passionate about this initiative, and we believe that it will make a significant impact in the lives of young people,” she stated.

Speaking at the workshop, Education Quality Specialist and retired director from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in Lagos, Adeyemi Adebayo, pointed out that social and emotional intelligence skills are essential for the proper development and growth of young people.

He lamented that many children in Nigeria lack these crucial skills, leading to issues such as peer pressure, cultism, and poor decision-making. Highlighting the importance of parental involvement, Adebayo said.

“Parents should talk more to their children. Society has evolved to a point where children need to know the implications of everything they do.”

One of the students at the workshop, Obechina Chinaza, expressed appreciation for the programme, stating that it has taught them how to manage their emotions and build positive relationships with others.