A recent initiative in Mauritius is taking a unique approach to educating children about risky behaviors. The RISE+ program, launched by the Rotary Club of Phoenix, aims to teach children about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, smoking, bullying, violence, peer pressure, and excessive screen time. Instead of relying solely on warning messages, the program uses games, storytelling, and creativity to convey its message. The program's creators believe that by making the learning experience fun and engaging, children will be more likely to absorb the information and make positive choices.
The program features three main tools: a life-size board game called "Pa Tom Dan Piez," an illustrated booklet called "Le chemin des bons choix," and a song called "Nou Pa Le." These tools were designed by Vino Sookloll and the team at FCB Cread. The goal is to give children the skills to recognize bad influences and say no without being lectured. The program's approach focuses on stimulating imagination, emotions, and memory to anchor prevention messages. Nashreen Rojoa, president of the Rotary Club of Phoenix, says that the program aims to create a safe space for children to discuss their difficulties without fear of judgment.
The "Pa Tom Dan Piez" game is inspired by traditional games like hopscotch and snakes and ladders. Children navigate a path filled with traps and make choices that can either advance or set them back. The game promotes positive behaviors and values like respect, honesty, and responsibility. The game also illustrates the consequences of risky behaviors, such as the "Ladrog" case that leads to "Prizon." The game's creators hope that by repeating the experience, children will internalize the messages and develop good decision-making skills.
The program's second tool, "Le chemin des bons choix," uses storytelling to convey its message. The story follows four friends who encounter a character called Monsieur Tentation, who tries to lead them into making bad choices. The story promotes positive values and encourages children to think critically about the consequences of their choices. The illustrated booklet is designed to be engaging and accessible to children.
The RISE+ program is based on the idea that children learn better through experience and emotions than through lectures. Nashreen Rojoa believes that children can forget recommendations, but they can remember stories, images, and experiences that have touched them. The program's creators hope that by leaving a lasting impression on children, they will be better equipped to make positive choices in the future.
The program's song, "Nou Pa Le," is another tool designed to help children learn to assert themselves. The song teaches children how to say no and make good choices in the face of peer pressure. The program's creators believe that by giving children the skills to make positive choices, they can reduce the risk of addiction and other negative behaviors.
The RISE+ program will run from 2026 to 2029, and its creators are optimistic about its potential impact. Nashreen Rojoa says that the program has been in development for over seven years, and she is confident that it will make a difference in the lives of children in Mauritius. The program's focus on prevention and empowerment is seen as a key factor in reducing the country's problems with addiction and other negative behaviors.
Key points
- The RISE+ program uses a unique approach to educate children about risky behaviors, focusing on games, storytelling, and creativity.
- The program features three main tools: a life-size board game, an illustrated booklet, and a song.
- The program aims to create a safe space for children to discuss their difficulties without fear of judgment.
