The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has trained 30 senior secondary students from Premiere Academy in Abuja as human rights defenders and peace ambassadors. The training, which focused on human rights, civic responsibilities, and justice, aimed to equip the students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote peace and respect for human rights in their school and communities. The Executive Secretary of NHRC, Chief Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu, SAN, led the training session accompanied by Deputy Director, Human Rights Education and Promotion, Mrs. Uche Okwuobi.
The training session covered various topics, including the mandate and activities of the NHRC, human rights, civic responsibilities, justice, equality, and the need to respect the dignity and fundamental rights of every individual. The students also participated in an interactive question-and-answer session, which provided them with a deeper understanding of the commission's role in promoting, protecting, and monitoring human rights in Nigeria. During the session, the students engaged NHRC officials on issues such as human rights violations, child protection, bullying, discrimination, abuse, and access to justice.
The Principal of Premiere Academy, Mr. Chris Akinsowon, welcomed the NHRC's initiative, describing it as a demonstration of the school's commitment to developing students equipped with academic knowledge, character, confidence, discipline, civic awareness, and a strong sense of responsibility. He stated that the engagement was both educational and inspiring, enabling the students to gain a deeper appreciation of the role of human rights in building a peaceful, just, and democratic society.
According to Mr. Akinsowon, Premiere Academy aims to empower students to become responsible citizens who understand the law, respect diversity, are able to speak up against injustice, and contribute positively to society. He appreciated the NHRC for enhancing the students' awareness through the training and pledged that the school would continue to create opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom and prepare students to become responsible leaders and positive contributors to national development.
The NHRC's training program is part of its efforts to promote human rights education and awareness among young people in Nigeria. By empowering students with knowledge and skills, the commission aims to create a new generation of human rights defenders and peace ambassadors who can promote and protect human rights in their communities. The training program also reflects the commission's commitment to collaborating with educational institutions to promote human rights education and awareness.
The students' participation in the training program demonstrates Premiere Academy's commitment to providing its students with a well-rounded education that goes beyond academic knowledge. By engaging with organizations like the NHRC, the school aims to equip its students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to make a positive impact in their communities. The training program is also expected to inspire the students to become active citizens who can contribute to building a more just and peaceful society.
The NHRC's initiative has been praised by stakeholders, who see it as a crucial step towards promoting human rights awareness and education among young people in Nigeria. By investing in the next generation of human rights defenders and peace ambassadors, the commission is helping to build a more just and peaceful society. The training program is also expected to have a positive impact on the students' personal development and their ability to make a positive contribution to their communities.
Key points
- The National Human Rights Commission trained 30 senior secondary students as human rights defenders and peace ambassadors in Abuja.
- The training program focused on human rights, civic responsibilities, justice, equality, and respect for human rights.
- The initiative aims to promote human rights education and awareness among young people in Nigeria.
