STEM, Leadership Skills Key To Nigeria’s Future, Says Foundation

As concerns grow over the quality of foundational education and the need to prepare young Nigerians for a rapidly evolving global economy, a non-governmental organisation, EGO Foundation, has stressed the importance of introducing STEM, leadership and civic education at the primary school level to nurture future innovators and responsible citizens.

This formed the basis of the Lead The Future 2.0 Programme implemented by the foundation across selected schools in Lagos State, where pupils were equipped with practical skills in science, technology, leadership, communication, civic responsibility and personal development.

The initiative, which was delivered in collaboration with the Nigerian Children Cultural Heritage as part of activities marking Lagos at 59, received support from Access Bank and the National Union of Lagos State Indigenes.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, Executive Director of EGO Foundation, Toluwase Olaniyan, said Nigeria’s future depends largely on how effectively it invests in the development of children at an early stage.

“Lead The Future 2.0 is an investment in the future of our communities and our nation. We believe leadership development should begin early. When children are exposed to the right values, skills, and opportunities, they are better positioned to become innovators, responsible citizens, and problem-solvers who contribute positively to society,” Olaniyan said.

He added that the initiative was designed to build confidence and critical thinking skills among young learners while encouraging innovation and civic consciousness.

“Through this programme, we are helping young learners build confidence, strengthen their critical thinking abilities, embrace innovation, and understand their role in shaping a better future for Nigeria,” he stated.

While the programme reached pupils in Primary 3 to Primary 6 across participating schools, including Dabitos Secondary School, Adegoke Primary School, Shitta Primary School, Abdullahi STEM School, Dedeke Primary School, Alisa Bashua Primary School, Agutasolo Primary School and Salvation Army School.

Participants underwent interactive workshops and experiential learning sessions focused on foundational STEM concepts, leadership principles, civic engagement, teamwork, emotional intelligence, communication skills and problem-solving techniques.

Stakeholders in the education sector have increasingly argued that while academic excellence remains important, young learners also require soft skills and civic values to thrive in the modern world and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Meanwhile, educators and school administrators who participated in the programme commended its practical approach, noting improvements in students’ confidence levels, classroom participation, teamwork and leadership abilities.

The initiative highlights growing efforts by non-governmental organisations and private sector partners to complement government interventions in education by addressing skills gaps often overlooked within traditional learning systems even as participants say programmes such as Lead The Future 2.0 underscore the need for sustained investment in STEM education and leadership development, particularly at the foundational level, where critical thinking, creativity and innovation can be nurtured from an early age.

The Foundation reiterated its commitment to advancing quality education, youth empowerment, leadership development and community transformation through strategic partnerships and innovative learning initiatives across Nigeria.