In an effort to support the growth and development of the young leaders through education, Rotary Clubs in Egbaland have organised interactive sessions with primary school pupils in Ogun State.
The interactive sessions were aimed at fostering peace, promoting sanitation, hygiene and advancing education.
The event, which was part of activities to mark Rotary’s Week of Service held at St John’s Anglican Primary School I and II in Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The facilitators that led the sensitisation of the students were members of the Rotary club and professionals from different fields.
During the interaction, the group also nurtured the students by providing them with professional-focused sessions as they learned about various career possibilities.
Coordinator of All Hope Presidents of Rotary Clubs in Abeokuta, Kazeem Olawale Alabi, said the initiative was championed by Rotary International to bring the essence of Rotary to the grassroots level.
Alabi hinted that the group aims to inspire the next generation to reach for the stars and achieve their utmost potential.
According to him, “Today marks a significant occasion as we convene to celebrate the Rotary Week of Service, a distinguished initiative championed by Rotary International to bring the essence of Rotary to the grassroots level.
“We gathered here at St. John’s, nestled within Zone 11 of District 9110, stand united with fellow zones across the district, each committed to undertaking specific projects aimed at fostering peace, promoting sanitation and hygiene, or advancing education.
“In deliberating the focus of our efforts, we fervently believe in the unparalleled potential of education to empower individuals and uplift communities. Thus, it is with great conviction that we have chosen to dedicate our resources and energies today towards educational endeavors.”
Speaking on the importance of education, Alabi said: “Education serves as the cornerstone of progress, offering a gateway to limitless opportunities and aspirations.
“Through enlightening sessions tailored for both students and educators alike, we seek to instill within them not only the principles of Rotary but also the profound belief that education serves as the catalyst for realising one’s dreams. By nurturing a culture of learning and ambition, we endeavor to inspire the next generation to reach for the stars and achieve their utmost potential.
“Yet, our commitment extends beyond mere words and teachings. In a tangible demonstration of our dedication, we have chosen to present the school with whiteboards—a symbol of our enduring commitment to leaving a lasting imprint on the community. These whiteboards, adorned with knowledge and aspirations, will serve as a testament to Rotary’s enduring legacy, reminding future generations of the transformative power of education and the indelible mark left by Rotary.”
Also speaking, another member of the club, Adewale Azeez, revealed that the gesture was to reach out to young minds, so they can envision their future paths.
He said the goal was to plant seeds of curiosity and ambition, adding that the group decided to bring professionals from different fields to conduct short sessions on different professions in order for students to understand what such professions entail.
His words: “Today, our focus is on reaching out to young minds, starting our efforts from the primary school level. We understand the importance of exposing children to various professions early on, so they can envision their future paths. By bringing professionals like doctors, bankers, and lawyers into primary schools, we aim to broaden their horizons.”
Also, the Past President of Rotary Club of Oke-Ona Egba, Modupe Onanuga, said the interactive sessions was to instill in the pupils the “I can” spirit.
She urged the students to take their academics seriously, in order to make it in life.
Coordinator of the programme, Elvis Okotete, said the clubs decided to promote education out of the love they have for the pupils.
Meanwhile, the St. John’s Anglican Primary School I headteacher, Mrs Folashade Abosede Ajayi, commended the clubs for the initiative, saying that the group has contributed to the school in the past.
She said: “We are immensely grateful for their efforts to educate and inspire our learners, as they impart valuable knowledge and guidance on various professions, motivating our students to strive for excellence in their studies. Their presence this morning brings us great joy, and I pray that God continues to bless them abundantly for their dedication to uplifting society,” she concluded.
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