The Nation Newspaper

Tag: International Award

  • International Award celebrates 980 Bronze recipients in Lagos

    International Award celebrates 980 Bronze recipients in Lagos

    The International Award for Young People Nigeria has decorated over 980 participants from government secondary schools in Lagos on completion of the Bronze level of the award framework.

    Drawn from the six education districts, they were recognised for their commitment to growth, leadership, and service.

    The Bronze Award is not just a milestone—it is a launchpad that represents months of dedication to community service, personal skill development, physical recreation, and the renowned Adventurous Journey, where teams navigate new environments, build resilience, and discover their inner strength.

    Eva Adelaja Girls Senior Grammar School (District 2) opened the week with 180 awardees out of 252 participants in the district; Lagos Senior Model College, Badore (District 3) hosted 120 awardees out of 145 completers, sharing tales of transformation and teamwork.

    At Sango Senior Secondary School in Agege (District 1), 123 out of 156 gathered for a heartfelt celebration of their growth and achievements. Agidingbi Senior Grammar School (District 6) welcomed 100 out of 139 Awardees, proving that excellence resides in every district.

    Lagos City College, Sabo-Yaba (District 4), brought together 115 of 150 awardees who spoke powerfully about the framework’s life-changing impact.

    In Awori Ajeromi Senior Grammar School (District 5), 120 of 140 award participants celebrated their achievement with special guests, including Tutor General / Permanent Secretary of the District, Mr. Hassan Dauda Abiodun and representatives of the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority.

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    Participants shared how the Award challenged them to be consistent, gave them confidence, and helped them discover new interests—from cooking and tailoring to organising clean-up campaigns and serving their communities.

    In District 4, one awardee shared how participating in the Voluntary Service section made her more empathetic and aware of the needs around her.

    Another from District 1 said: “The Adventurous Journey taught me that I can push beyond limits I thought I had.”

    National Director, Mr. Bello Oshoke, told the awardees: “What you have achieved is more than a certificate. It’s a personal transformation. You’ve proven that young people in Lagos State public schools are capable of excellence, resilience, and leadership.”

    He urged the participants to continue their journey to the Silver Level, which they can now complete virtually through the Virtual Award Delivery (VAD) platform—further expanding access and inclusivity.

    The Bronze Award ceremonies held from July 23 to 27 are more than events—they are a movement. They reflect the growing commitment of the Lagos State Ministry of Education and the International Award for Young People Nigeria to provide access to holistic, non-formal education that meets young people where they are.

  • International Award kicks off 2025 with adventurous journey

    International Award kicks off 2025 with adventurous journey

    The International Award for Young People Nigeria has held the first Adventurous Journey (AJ) of the year.

    It is a two-day Qualifying Silver and Bronze Adventurous Journey for participants from 44 licensed FCT Government Secondary Schools in Abuja.

    The journey was conducted in five batches: January 24 – 26, January 31- February 2, February 7- 9 and February 21- 23, 2025.

    The Adventurous Journey is one of the four key sections of the Award designed to help participants develop resilience, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills through challenging outdoor experiences.

    It fosters a spirit of adventure by encouraging young people to explore their environment while working collaboratively in small groups to achieve a common goal.

    Each batch of participants began their journey at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, which served as their base camp.

    Upon arrival, they were welcomed and briefed by the AJ Coordinator on the camp rules and expectations.

    Before setting off on their expedition, they underwent essential training covering First Aid basics, team-building exercises, leadership development, SMART goal setting, route planning, compass and map reading, and physical endurance drills.

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    These preparatory activities equipped them with the necessary skills to navigate their route safely and effectively.

    With their maps and compasses in hand, participants set out on foot to locate the Wuye Market district.

    Along the way, they engaged in meaningful interactions with the Fulani community in a nearby settlement, where they asked insightful questions about the community’s lifestyle, traditional dishes, and cattle-rearing practices.

    The participants also made observations at the Kukwuba Train Station, where they practiced taking bearings with their compasses.

    The return journey proved to be equally adventurous as they challenged themselves by hiking the hill near Magicland before making their way back to their base camp on foot.

    The physical and mental endurance required for this journey instilled in them a strong sense of accomplishment and resilience.

    Beyond the physical aspects of the AJ, the experience played a crucial role in building self-confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills among the participants.

    They learned practical life skills such as maintaining personal and environmental cleanliness, assisting in meal preparation, and effectively managing their resources throughout the journey.

    The participants embraced the adventure wholeheartedly, setting personal goals and actively engaging with the Fulani community to broaden their understanding of diverse cultures and ways of life.

    By the end of the journey, participants had gained valuable life lessons, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, cooperation, and adaptability in unfamiliar environments.

    The first AJ of 2025 was a resounding success, leaving participants with a deep sense of achievement and newfound confidence.

    As they continue their journey in the Award programme, they are better equipped to take on new challenges and contribute positively to their communities.