The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, on Tuesday marked Children’s Day with a line up of vocational and cultural activities aimed at practical skills and values in children.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event drew thousands of children from various schools and communities across the state.
The party, which was held at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, was not only focused on entertainment but also skills acquisition and cultural awareness.
Some of the vocational classes included photography, painting, shoemaking, candle making, tie and dye.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, said the programme was not only aimed at celebrating the children.
Aregbe said the event was also to expose the children to meaningful learning activities that reinforce Nigerian values.
“They are very key to nation building; they determine the future, determine the next kind of generation that we’re raising.
“We’re not only trying to make them happy; we’re trying to engage them; encourage them and most importantly; refine them; let them be able to get some lessons,” he said.
Aregbe said it was also an avenue to emphasise cultural values and instill the respect of values and tradition in the children.
He noted that in spite of the fun activities the children were participating in, they would also leave with an added skill.
“We need to begin to promote family entertainment to make sure that the children are well taken care of and we’re not leaving them behind in whatever we’re doing.
“We need to start promoting what truly helps us move this nation forward,” he said.
Aregbe pledged the state’s support in giving more attention to adding values to children and communities.
He urged various institutions to partner with the state to ensure that the right path is created for children.
One of the guests at the event, Mrs Oreva Taiwo, expressed joy that the children did not just have fun alone but were also given a platform to discover their talents and learn practical skills.
Taiwo, who is also a Director at Little Miss and Master Lagos, said the skills the children learned could shape their futures, and also be beneficial to the society.
“These skills will make them understand that success doesn’t only come from wealth but from the little things they can do with their hands and minds.
“It’s important that our children believe in themselves. Regardless of their circumstances, they should be able to express their talents in public and not feel timid,” she said.
One of the participants in the photography class, Maleek Imam, said he learned how to take shots for social media using both a camera and phone, and also how to position someone for better pictures.
“We were also told that we shouldn’t back the sun while taking pictures so you can get better pictures,” Imam said. (NAN)
