EU-SDGN Holds School Outreaches on Civic and Voters Education in Oyo State

 

The European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Programme implemented by the EU-SDGN cohort member, Justice, Development and Peace Movement (JDPM) has launched a series of school outreach programmes focused on civic and voters’ education in Oyo State. 

The initiative, which kicked off this week in Ibadan, targets secondary school students, aiming to equip the next generation of voters with the knowledge and skills necessary to actively engage in Nigeria’s democracy.

The outreach programme, held in various schools across the state, are designed to educate students on the importance of civic duties, voters’ rights, and the electoral process. Through interactive sessions, debates, and educational materials, the EU-SDGN aims to develop a culture of informed citizenship and encourage young people to take an active role in shaping the future of their communities.

During the school visits, JDPM facilitators emphasized key topics such as the importance of voting, the role of elections in democratic governance, and the need for peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections. The outreach also highlighted the responsibilities of citizens in holding leaders accountable and the role of young people in promoting good governance. Special focus was placed on combating electoral malpractices, including vote buying and voter apathy, which have been recurring challenges in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Speaking at one of the sessions, a representative from JDPM, stressed the importance of educating the youth on civic responsibility. “Our democracy can only thrive when citizens are fully informed and actively participate in the electoral process. This outreach aims to instil the values of democracy in our young people and empower them to be agents of positive change,” he said.

The students engaged enthusiastically in discussions about their roles as future voters, with many expressing a newfound understanding of the importance of making informed decisions during elections. Some students also shared ideas on how young people can influence their communities and contribute to building a more accountable political system.

Representative for one of the participating schools, lauded the EU-SDGN’s through JDPM efforts, noting that the programme had opened the students’ eyes to their civic responsibilities. “This is an excellent initiative. It has not only educated our students but has also inspired them to think critically about their role in Nigeria’s future,” she said.

The school outreach programmes are part of the EU-SDGN’s strategy to promote civic education and build a foundation for active and responsible citizenship in Nigeria. By engaging students early, the programme seeks to cultivate a generation of voters who are not only aware of their rights but also committed to upholding democratic values.

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