…Young Child in School initiative promotes digital literacy, confidence, creativity among students
EROMOSELE OMOIKE
NIGERIA: The atmosphere at Top Teez Academy, Ojodu Abiodun, was charged with excitement and inspiration as Event Diary Lifestyle, through its flagship project — the Young Child in School Initiative — hosted the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child celebration.
This year’s event, themed “Digital Generation: Our Generation” and centered on the topic “Girls in Tech: Shaping Tomorrow, Today,” provided an empowering platform for over 200 girls from various schools to explore digital literacy, creativity, and self-confidence in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Inspiring Keynote and Mentorship
The highlight of the celebration was a virtual keynote address delivered by Oluwatoyin Angel, a U.S.-based author and child advocate. Speaking via Google Meet, Angel encouraged the girls to embrace technology and pursue STEM-related careers, stressing that “coding is not meant for men alone.” She urged participants to see themselves as innovators and leaders shaping the future.
A vibrant mentorship session, moderated by Amina Omoike, featured student representatives discussing “Building Confidence and Finding Their Voices.” The interactive dialogue brought together students, parents, teachers, and mentors in an engaging exchange that celebrated girls’ aspirations and achievements.
Empowering Voices and Real-Life Stories
Adding glamour and relatability to the event, popular entertainer and influencer Ocare shared her personal journey, urging the girls to stay focused, set clear goals, and plan strategically for their futures.
Two distinguished speakers, Mrs. Ginia Bolaji Bello — an educationist and mother — and Mrs. Esther Akanbi, a women-in-STEM advocate, further enriched the programme. Bello emphasized the transformative power of education in securing girls’ futures, while Akanbi underscored the importance of digital literacy and the use of technology as a tool for empowerment.
Competitions and Talent Discovery
The event also featured engaging competitions designed to promote learning, teamwork, and creativity.
In the Puzzle Competition, Akintola Favour from Alpha School clinched first place, followed by Onyebuchi Emmanuella and Oladotun Ayomide of Top Teez Academy, who placed second and third respectively. Oke Toluwani of Real Prudent Academy took fourth position.
Each winner received cash rewards, which will be deposited into newly opened Access Bank savings accounts, promoting early financial literacy and inclusion among students.
The Art & Painting Competition also drew enthusiastic participation from ten budding young artists. Obafemi Setemi of Alpha School took first place, with Omopekun Oluwaferanmi Victoria of Top Teez Academy securing second. Tony Favour (Real Prudent Height Academy) and Aniefiok Nene (Top Teez Academy) placed third and fourth respectively.
Most of the top performers were first-time painters, whose expressive artworks underscored the initiative’s success in nurturing creativity and uncovering hidden talents.
Advocating Long-Term Impact
In her welcome address, the convener, Princess Adeola Kafila Shittu, expressed gratitude to participating schools and partners, describing the initiative as a “transformational movement for the girl child.” She emphasized that the Young Child in School Initiative is focused on creating long-term impact — not just awareness — by helping girls gain confidence and thrive in male-dominated fields.
She also appreciated Top Teez Academy for hosting the event for two consecutive years and commended sponsors including Cway Group, Access Bank, Auto Glam, and other individual supporters for their contributions to the program’s success.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Mrs. Ayodeji Orojo, Acting Proprietress of Top Teez Academy, who encouraged the girls to apply their new skills responsibly, leverage digital tools wisely, and continue striving to become positive change-makers in their communities.
