Lions District 404B5 Nigeria through its Lions Quest programme, has equipped 43 teachers in Lagos State with practical skills to address bullying, drug abuse and other challenges affecting children in schools.
District Governor, District 404B5 Nigeria, Lion Phina Origho, PMJF, NLCF said the initiative was designed to strengthen the ability of educators to guide young people in developing positive character, making responsible choices and building healthy relationships.
According to her, the training provides teachers with the tools required to positively influence pupils and help them navigate social and emotional challenges.
“The Lions Clubs International organizes this programme to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to guide children, help them build healthy relationships and make responsible decisions,” the DG said.
She disclosed that Lions clubs in the district sponsored at least three teachers each to participate in the training.
DG Phina Origho also noted that the programme had contributed to a decline in cases of bullying and had helped some young people dealing with drug-related challenges.
“Bullying is prevalent, even among children in primary schools. Through this programme, we have seen a significant reduction in bullying, particularly across Lagos State. “We have also been able to equip young people with the skills and confidence to make positive contributions in different areas,” she added.
The Lions Quest Committee Chairperson, District 404B5 Nigeria, Lion Olapeju Hassan NLCF said the programme places strong emphasis on social and emotional learning particularly the psychological well-being of pupils.
Lion Olapeju explained that while many interventions focus on the physical and academic needs of children, Lions Quest also seeks to address the emotional and mental dimensions of their development.
“This programme focuses on social and emotional learning. We often do so much for children without paying enough attention to their mental and emotional well-being. “We are therefore investing in our future by ensuring that every child who comes through these teachers is positively influenced,” she said.
One of the participants, Mr Oladeji Tunde, Head Teacher of Westerville Nursery and Primary School, described the training as transformative and enlightening. He said the programme had encouraged teachers to reassess traditional approaches to teaching and embrace more effective ways of connecting with children and adolescents.
“For me, this has been an opportunity to unlearn approaches that are no longer effective, relearn relevant methods and continue developing as an educator. “It has broadened our understanding of how to engage adolescents in ways that can help them grow into confident, responsible and capable adults,” he said.
Mr Oladeji added that the training had also helped teachers recognize that differences in academic performance do not necessarily mean that a child is a slow learner. He explained that some pupils may be struggling with circumstances outside the classroom that affect their ability to learn and participate effectively.
“We have learned that children learn differently and at different paces. A child who appears to be a slow learner may actually be dealing with issues that have little to do with academic ability.
“When teachers establish trusting and supportive relationships with their pupils, children are more likely to open up about what they are experiencing. Some of the challenges affecting their performance originate from their homes or other environments.
“Some children may be experiencing abuse, neglect, bullying or other difficult circumstances without anyone knowing. This training has helped us understand that teaching goes beyond standing in front of a classroom with a marker and delivering lessons,” he said.
The two day event was a huge success and kudos must go to the Multiple District Team led by PCC Kola Oyekanmi PMJF NLCF that facilitated the training.
