Ahead of the May 27 Children’s Day celebration, the Ondo State government on Monday disclosed that the State Children’s Parliament, which had been moribund for 12 years, would be resuscitated in the state.
The Special Adviser on Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Oluwaseun Osamaye, who disclosed this during a press conference to herald the Children’s Day, said the parliament would strengthen the nation’s hard-earned democracy and provide democratic leadership knowledge and background to the children as leaders of tomorrow.
Osamaye stated that the children would be taken to the State House of Assembly to observe the plenary session of the Assembly on Wednesday and Thursday.
According to Dr Osamaye, the pupils would also be exposed to the proceedings and how lawmakers operate and make demands for their constituencies.
“For this year, we have introduced new innovations into the celebration, marking a clear departure from past events.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa has affirmed that his administration will prioritise social welfare, development, and healthcare access for children.
“This year’s celebration will go beyond the usual fanfare. It will highlight the intellectual capabilities of our children, especially in the areas of knowledge identification and reward for excellence.
“The Ondo State Children’s Parliament, which has been moribund for over a decade, is being revived.
“Tomorrow, the children will be introduced to the Speaker and will observe plenary with the assistance of Safety Children International.”
She said the children would participate in a two-day orientation programme between Wednesday and Thursday, where they would be trained in their parliamentary roles and responsibilities.
Speaking on the theme, “Stand Up, Building A Bully-Free Generation,” she said the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration is determined to encourage the children in exploring and maximising their potential.
The Special Adviser said the state government would organise oratory skills and cultural competitions as part of activities to commemorate the celebration, stating that no fewer than 2,500 pupils from 100 primary and secondary schools in the state would participate in the competition.
Osamaye explained that one student would represent each school that would represent each local government participating in the oratory skills competition.
She said there are prizes to be won by the winners of the competitions, noting that the first runner-up would receive N500,000, the second N200,000, and the third winner would receive N100,000.
Apart from this, she said the schools are also expected to participate in cultural displays to showcase the cultural heritage peculiar to their communities.
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While speaking on the theme, the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, said that a bullying-free generation is key to the development and success of children, stressing that it is the responsibility of adults to lead children by example through interaction and good conflict management skills.
“When intervening in a bullying situation, it is important to remain impartial. Treat both parties with the dignity and respect they should show each other. Be firm in ending the attack, but don’t show an emotional response.
“Try to remain in control of the situation and don’t get drawn into an argument over blame. Make sure all the children know acceptable behaviour and what the consequences will be for bullying,” he said.
He added, “At our level in ODSUBEB, we will continue to explore ways to create a safe and supportive environment, including the development of anti-bullying policies and programmes to drive this crusade to its logical conclusion.
“While the government plays its part, our children need our attention, encouragement, and support to sail through and/or avoid bullying. I urge both parents and teachers to know and play their roles diligently to educate our wards, both the bully and the bullied.”
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