Earlier in the year, ACET Nigeria expanded its army of volunteers by training another 63 change makers who want to support children and young people in making positive decisions, to run Children’s Clubs, and deliver the Esteem programme. The training covered topics such as delivering age and culturally appropriate relationships and sex education, how to communicate in a child-friendly way, and child safeguarding. The training is full of fun and engaging activities such as card sort games, dramas, and poster making.
34 Children’s Clubs reached 1029 children in the first 6 months of the year, offering recreational activities, homework support, relationships and sex education, and a safe space to talk with specially trained adults about the challenges of growing up. Some clubs also teach fun practical skills, e.g. one club in Kogi has been teaching the children how to make egusi, a popular West African soup made with melon seeds and fish or meat.
In the same period, 1,480 teenagers benefitted from 74 Esteem Clubs where an interactive curriculum helps them navigate the challenges of puberty, relationships, drugs, alcohol, teenage pregnancy, sexting, and online grooming.
Adanna, age 6, tells her story:
"I first came to Children’s Club because my friend told me that the leaders there have been helping her with her homework. I went to get help too, and have been coming ever since. I used to get in a lot of trouble at school for not doing my homework, but now I hand it in on time and feel I understand my subjects better.
I enjoy playing with my friends after school; it gives me a break from doing chores at home. Dancing is particularly fun!
I have learned that HIV is a virus that affects the body’s immune system, and how to protect myself from it. I used to think that everyone with HIV died, but I now know that there is medication available that can help HIV-positive people to maintain their health.
Children’s Club also taught me to see boys and girls the same way - girls can also do things like play football and go to work. When I grow up, I want to be a doctor so I can save lives."
.