As a way of filling the gap in the education system, occasioned by ravaging COVID-19, Five Cowries Initiative, FCI, has developed a ‘Home Learning Kits’ for children in order to keep them continuously engaged during this period.
FCI stated that it would be distributing worksheets to children across the country.
It informed that the worksheets require no electricity or data and are part of a fuller alternative education plan, keen on exploring the use of arts in nurturing creativity in education.
Founder of FCI, Polly Alakija, clarified further that the worksheets would be used in conjunction with other supporting activities. This included a weekly thirty-minute radio show incorporating lessons, storytelling, current affairs, and call-ins led teachers.
Alakija revealed that not less than 1800 children in Kaduna and Ogun State have received “My Story of Water” worksheets so far.
She said that the 1,800 children who receive initial worksheets would continue to receive subsequent worksheets–in line with the learning schedule, every two weeks over four months.
She added that the initiative is presently developing creative programmes with Lagos State Ministry of Education to extend gesture to Lagos based children.
“With the distribution of 1500 worksheets set to commence across SOS villages this week, Five Cowries Initiative aims to replicate its current successes nationwide.
“To achieve this, we are working closely with technical and implementing partners including Teach For Nigeria and SOS Children in developing educational contents.
“We are also working with DHL in delivering the sheets across the nation. Committed to fostering the preservation of indigenous languages, the worksheets are currently available in Yoruba, Igbo and French will soon be translated into Hausa and Kanuri,” she said.
Speaking on the impact of the project and need for continued support, she said, “There is ample room for growth and evolution in the education sector and now, we have an opportunity to scrutinise mainstream teaching methods. Through these kits, we are able to provide structured learning for children across several learning platforms that still encourages playfulness and aids creativity.”
