Foundation employs creative ways of educating pupils on SDGs

Worried that thousands of public schools are facing dire challenges with combating open defecation and poor hygiene amongst pupils, the Abdul-Lateef and Sanni Foundation is exploring finding creative ways of educating pupils on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The move, which it said was in line with its mission to develop the next generation of thinkers, innovators and civic leaders, took the form of a two-day creative skill exercise, and specifically targeted at educating them on the SDGs, in particular Goal Six – Clean Water and Sanitation. It was also part of efforts to transform the lives of indigent Nigerians through access to quality education.

In the endeavour, the foundation partnered with the Five Cowries Art for Education Initiative to deliver an educative and fun art activity, which included teaching the pupils about basic hygiene and the consequences of poor sanitation.

The pupils also had opportunity of creating individual art works before working in teams to translate their artworks into murals with paints donated by Kansai Plascon.

At the event, which held at the Muslim Model Nursery & Primary School, Abeokuta, Ogun State, the foundation expressed worry that even after constructing a new toilet block for the pupils, they still preferred to ease themselves outside, a development, which posed a great health hazard.

Also part of the programme were Nigerian Girls Guide and Boys Scout associations, all of which worked with the pupils to produce, and present a short drama about the SDG among others.

Programme Director of the Abdul-Lateef and Sanni Foundation, Zahra Abdulkareem, in his remarks, said: “We believe that at this early stage of development, children learn best through play and practical experiences. It is so fulfilling to see the children exploring creative ways of learning and expression. This is the most engaged I have seen them, and we have already seen a big improvement in their understanding of the importance of using the toilet facilities and washing their hands afterwards.”

Members of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Abeokuta North LGEA and Parents Teachers Association (PTA) were also in attendance.