As part of its contribution to change the negative Xenophobia narrative among the next generation of leaders, Greensprings School, Lagos recently organised a National Day with the theme Xenophobia: A Cry for Unity.
The programme which was organised to mark the 59th Nigeria’s independence anniversary also provided an opportunity to create awareness among the students about the effects of xenophobia and the need to maintain a peaceful relationship with people from other tribes, religion, cultures, as well as with the international community.
Barney Wilson, deputy director of Education, Greensprings School, said the school decided to focus on xenophobia, which is plaguing not only Africa, but the whole world.
Wilson said the school is using the event to challenge students to be independent in their thoughts; to be respectful of their answers; to chart a new way so that the economies can come together so that we can benefit from the love that we have for each other
“Xenophobia is really ignorance; making assumptions about people based on what one has been told, adding that as tomorrow’s leaders, students don’t have to hold on to their opinions about other tribes and countries based on what they were told”, Wilson said.
Wilson further said as Nigeria celebrates her independence, “We want the community to know that Greensprings School is saying one Africa, unity, love each other, don’t make assumptions, come together, spend time with each other and learn to respect each other.”
He said the school expects the students to be better leaders tomorrow than the existing leaders today.
Some of the parents that spoke with journalists said the annual national day helps the students to be aware about their country and when they participate in activities like dance and drama, they get to understand the culture of Nigeria.
They added that with this year’s theme of xenophobia, the students are more aware of what it is and how not to participate in xenophobia and the best behaviour they should put up as Nigerians.
Highlights of the day saw parents bring their indigenous food and drinks, which were displayed so that students and other guests will have the opportunity to eat food from other tribes and savour the diversity of the country.
KELECHI EWUZIE
