NGO impacts Nigerian, Japanese students with community development skills

The Neo Child Initiative (TNCI) for Africa, a non-profit organisation, recently reiterated its mission and commitment to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and community-driven initiatives.

At an event held at the Nest Technology Innovation Park in Lagos, TNCI convened some Nigerian and Japanese students to train and enhance their understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), peer-to-peer learning, and active participation in community development.

Eleven students from Shibuya Junior High School in Japan, and 10 students from four Nigerian (Lagos) schools — Mobolaji Bank Anthony Junior Secondary School, Idi-Araba Community Junior High School, Obele Community Junior Secondary School, and Randle Junior Secondary School were beneficiaries of the training.

According to the organisers of the event, by fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, TNCI aims to shape a generation of proactive global citizens.

The organisers added that the event aimed at deepening students’ understanding of the SDGs, cultivating their mindset for proactive and innovative tackling of social issues, and promoting cross-cultural exchange between Nigerian and Japanese students, thereby fostering a broader global perspective.

Major highlights from the event included interactive sessions where the students engaged in stimulating discussions and activities aimed at strengthening critical thinking and problem-solving skills; collaborative group discussions where the participants worked in teams to brainstorm innovative solutions to pressing global challenges, including poverty, inequality, and climate change; and group presentations where the students presented their solutions, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and commitment to sustainable development.

For better impact, each presentation was assessed based on four key criteria — creativity (thinking of innovative solutions), empathy (caring about others), collaboration (ability to identify and work with stakeholders), and efficiency (ability to think of innovative solutions.

The organisers, at the end of the training, stated that they are happy that the students gained a deeper understanding of the SDGs and an enhanced knowledge and commitment to sustainable development, and are now empowered to become innovative thinkers, problem-solvers, and change-makers, equipped with the skills and confidence to drive positive change in their communities.

They added that the four Lagos schools would establish SDG mentorship clubs in their schools that would provide a platform for students to engage in ongoing discussions, peer-to-peer learning, and SDG-related activities.

Esther Nwaiwu, Director of Programmes at TNCI, stated that they are thrilled to provide a platform for young leaders to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another.

“This event marks the beginning of a meaningful collaboration between Nigerian and international students, and we are excited to witness the lasting impact on our global community,” Nwaiwu said.

Peculiar Onyibia, a TNCI mentor, highlighted the significance of the initiative, adding, “It is incredible to see young people think creatively to address real-world problems. Their passion and energy exemplify the power of global citizenship.”

Futaba Yonemura, a 14-year-old student from Shibuya Junior High School in Japan, said, “Today, I realised how little I knew about other communities and their challenges. I am now committed to learning more about Nigeria, especially its healthcare system, as I aspire to become a medical doctor and practice medicine in Africa.”

Organisers of the training stressed that they remain steadfast in their mission to empower future leaders through education, community development, and global citizenship initiatives.

They added that the event is a testament to TNCI’s dedication to fostering international partnerships that drive positive change.

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