The Masterminds Community Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has organised an emotional intelligence development programme to equip students with essential life skills for personal and social growth.
The initiative, held in partnership with New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Surulere, is part of activities to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
Children’s Day is a globally recognised celebration dedicated to honouring youth, promoting children’s rights, and advocating for their welfare. In Nigeria, it is observed annually on May 27.
The programme focused on instilling positive emotional habits that promote personal development, social awareness, discipline, and responsible decision-making among students.
In her address, the Founder of Masterminds Community Foundation, Mrs Vivian Oghene, said the present generation of children faces growing emotional pressures from society, peers, and digital media.
She described emotional intelligence as a critical life skill for leadership, mental well-being, confidence building, conflict resolution, and personal development in today’s rapidly changing world.
Oghene explained that children today are exposed to various emotional pressures from social media, peer influence, and society, making emotional education essential for their balanced development.
“So this programme focuses on self-awareness, empathy, self-control, confidence, kindness, communication skills, and responsible decision-making as essential tools for emotional balance and healthy relationships,” she said.
She added that beyond academic excellence, emotional intelligence must be intentionally taught to help students manage emotions, build relationships, and make wiser long-term decisions.
Mrs Rupa Wajapey, a facilitator, explained that simple breathing exercises help students pause, think clearly, and respond calmly instead of reacting impulsively during emotional pressure or conflict.
“We engaged the students by teaching them breathing techniques to help them manage stress, reduce anxiety, control anger, and improve concentration during challenging situations,” she added.
In her remarks, the Administrator of New Estate Baptist Secondary School, Mrs Uche Agbazue, commended the initiative, describing it as timely, impactful, and highly beneficial for students’ development.
“This programme is very significant. It has opened the minds of our students to emotional discipline, empathy, and positive behaviour. I really appreciate the Foundation for this laudable intervention,” she said.
“On our part, we will encourage the students to apply the emotional intelligence skills learned here in school, at home, and in their wider social environments.”
The students participated in interactive activities on self-confidence, communication, empathy, teamwork, friendship building, respect for others, and managing emotions positively.
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, education, and community-driven programmes that promote emotional resilience and responsible citizenship.
