Get Guardian on GoogleA group of women under the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Programme has trained hundreds of teenage boys in leadership, character development, and life skills as part of efforts to prepare them for future responsibilities and leadership challenges.
The initiative, organised through a non-governmental organisation, The 360° Man, was held under the theme From Boy to Role Models 3.0 and brought together students from 36 secondary schools in Lagos for mentoring and interactive sessions with accomplished professionals.
The programme, which focused on shaping boys into responsible, confident and purposeful men, addressed issues including character formation, emotional intelligence, career choices, leadership and personal development.
The event, held at the weekend at St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos, featured motivational and inspirational presentations by men who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields.
The keynote speaker was Fela Durotoye, while other resource persons included Emmanuel Alafiatayo, Dr Baba Femi Adenuga and Segun Somefun.
Among the participating schools were Crystal International College, St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, and Distinct Star International College, Lekki.
Speaking on the objectives of the initiative, Durotoye said the programme was designed to address the question of how to raise boys who are confident, deliberate in their choices, emotionally aware and prepared to take responsibility.
He said: “This is an initiative committed to equipping boys with the character, leadership qualities, emotional intelligence and practical life skills they need to navigate life and grow into responsible men.
“The men of tomorrow are being shaped by the lessons, examples and opportunities we give them today. This is where character meets purpose. This is where boys begin to see beyond themselves. This is The 360° Man.”
The organisers also extended the programme beyond Lagos through online participation by boys from underserved communities in Kaduna.
Durotoye said the virtual arrangement was intended to ensure that geographical and economic limitations did not prevent young boys from accessing mentorship and positive role models.
“From Kaduna to Lagos, the message of The 360° Man 3.0 — Boys to Role Models reached beyond the walls of our physical venue. We were especially delighted to have boys from underserved communities in Kaduna join us through our online streaming experience,” he said.
He added that every boy deserved access to knowledge, positive role models and opportunities to realise his potential, irrespective of his background.
The initiative also involved parents, who were encouraged to play active roles in shaping the values and aspirations of their children.
The Principal and Director of Boys’ Junior Academy, Lagos Island, Sobanke Rafiu Olalekan, commended the organisers and resource persons for investing in the development of the students.
He said the programme would help address the limited opportunities available to boys for mentorship and personal development.
“We are glad to have you as a partner in progress so as to impact the boys positively. It may be small in the sight of you, but to me, very marvellous. In continuation of this shall change the narrative. The boys have been neglected in such programmes,” he said.
Another public school principal also praised the initiative for providing students with opportunities to learn outside the conventional classroom and interact with accomplished personalities.
Some of the participating students said the programme had broadened their understanding of leadership and the importance of identifying positive role models.
Adejoye Adeboye of Crystal High School, Obalende, identified his father as his role model, saying his father’s personal commitment to his upbringing had helped him overcome academic challenges.
Albert Joseph of Debous International College, Lekki, said he looked up to his mother because of her dedication to preaching the word of God.
Similarly, Marvellous Osinowo of Distinct Star International College, Lekki, identified his father as his role model, describing him as hardworking, religious and knowledgeable in information and communication technology.
Moses Oghenero Agufure, also of Distinct Star International College, said his father inspired him through his willingness to help and support him.
Another participant, Abuke Oluwakorede of Devian International College, Lekki, said he admired his mother for her bravery, gentleness and commitment to his well-being.
