Godspeed Leadership and Mentorship Development Initiative (GLEMDI), an NGO, has trained Head Boys and Girls in secondary schools to foster effective leadership.
At GLEMDI’s annual leadership retreat in the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday, its Executive Director, Mr Habila Kayit, emphasised the importance of cultivating leadership skills in youths.
The retreat had “Enhancing Capacity for Leadership and Accountability among Learners for Sustainable Development,” as its theme.
Kayit said its aim was to create a platform for student leaders to develop knowledge and skills.
He noted that good leadership had long been a challenge, prompting GLEMDI to instill leadership skills in youths.
GLEMDI’s programme, he added, was to equip young leaders to utilise their positions and contribute positively to society.
He said that the retreat’s objective was to foster a conducive environment for constructive debates, stimulating discussions that enable student leaders to develop essential knowledge and leadership skills to address the needs within their school community.
“At GLEMDI, we prefer not to merely identify issues and complain, but instead, take proactive steps to effect change.
“We recognise that head boys and head girls often underestimate the significant responsibilities they bear.
“During their tenure as prefects, it is their duty to encourage fellow students to uphold the law, initiate projects that benefit the school and enhance their own learning experience.
“Our ultimate goal is to foster a corruption-free and accountable nation that we can all take pride in.
“By empowering prefects to become effective leaders, they can rectify existing wrongs and contribute to a safer, more promising future for themselves and forthcoming generations.
“We believe the principles and skills acquired through this initiative will benefit them beyond their tenure as head boys, equipping them to make a positive impact in the wider society.”
Mr Joab Tagwai, Chairman of GLEMDI’s Board of Trustees, encouraged students to be receptive to learning and share their knowledge with others in their schools, making a lasting impact upon graduation.
Tagwai emphasised that sustainable development hinges on effective leadership, stressing the importance of cultivating leaders from a young age for national growth.
“The foundation of leadership begins early, which is why I appreciate GLEMDI’s initiative to train students.
“As you acquire leadership skills, strive to leave a lasting legacy rather than simply fulfilling your tenure. Your positive impact will earn you recognition and respect.”
Dr Sule Alhassan, Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education (UBEB), praised GLEMDI for its initiative to empower head boys and girls, stating that effective leadership is key to a well-functioning system.
Represented by Mr Rabo Nsu, Deputy Director of the School Based Management Committee, Alhassan noted that participating schools would benefit from the programme and experience development.
“Hope for Nigeria is never lost.
“Nigeria is blessed, and by the time we leave this place, we will be better equipped with skills,” Alhassan said.
Participants, including Miss Enomfon Edet from NOWA Secondary School, appreciated GLEMDI for the opportunity to acquire leadership skills, promising to share their knowledge with fellow students.
Mr Giwe-Amu Immanuel, Head Boy at NAOWA College, Kurudu, expressed gratitude to GLEMDI for considering young leaders.
“My mindset towards leadership has changed.
“I plan to utilise my skills to build my school and the nation,’’he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the retreat brought together stakeholders from the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the FCT Youth Development Secretariat who discussed on preparing young leaders for service.(NAN)
