Management science students emphasize transformative power of education in CSR program

By Ukey Elizabeth and Ithiel Afolayan

“Education is a journey that can change your life forever.” This was the message delivered by the INS“22 Group 1 students of the Department of Actuarial Science and Insurance during their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) event.

Today, on the 20th of June 2024, the students from the University of Lagos visited Christ Divine Favour Secondary School, Iwaya, to empower the students as part of their final year CSR project requirement.

The team was warmly welcomed by the JSS3 students, the focal point of their project. Under the theme ‘Building Stronger Futures’, they emphasized the essentials for academic success and the transformative power of education, with the aim of motivating the students who were preparing for their first external exams- JSSCE/BECE.

 Kicking off with an opening prayer, the event commenced at 10:15 AM, followed by introductions from the MC Ms. Jane, who explained the purpose of their visit. Ms. Omotayo then delivered a brief speech highlighting the importance of education, debunking the ‘school na scam’ notion, and encouraging diligence: “Anywhere you find yourself, make sure you’re learning something from it. Be brave and focused and with your hard work, you’ll go places.”

An affirmation session led by Jane involving the recitation of inspirational words, followed by team members sharing personal educational journeys and insights. Mr. Tolu, known as “Tallest,” spoke first about his journey as a Student-Athlete. He talked about his transition from playing chess exclusively to other sports like volleyball and swimming, fuelled by the need to diversify his expertise. He also added that sports in general was a way of “… easing the stress of school activities and connecting with peers.”

The next speaker was Pastor Micheal, who emphasized the distinction between schooling and education. “Schooling means just going to school, whether learning occurs or not, while Education is impacting knowledge that can transform your life even in a long period of time,” he explained. He advised the students to be open to learning from anyone and anywhere and stressed the importance of curiosity in the learning process. “The hunger for knowledge is what differentiates intelligent people from others,” he said. He also compared the journey of education to the growth of a tree, using the example of planting a corn seed and nurturing it until it bears fruit.

Following him was the social director of the MSA, who spoke about the unpredictable nature of education. He shared his personal journey from aspiring to study aeronautical engineering to discovering a passion for insurance, which he ultimately pursued. He encouraged the students to take advantage of the resources available to them and to invest in all their passions while they have the time. “…there’s nothing you cannot achieve. Because you fail at something doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world,” he said. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of connecting with the right people, which can help one learn bit by bit and can be put together to become a whole experience.

The final speaker, Mr. Toriola, the President of the Faculty of Management Science Students Association, encouraged the students to not confine themselves to one space, as there was no limit to what they could achieve.

Furthermore, the supervising lecturers addressed the students. The first lecturer, Dr. Shogunro, spoke on failure and how to overcome it in the journey of life. He shared his story of how his resilience and determination took him from last position to second position in his primary school and then up to becoming a lecturer in the prestigious University of First Choice. He acknowledged the change of mind and determination as the propeller to his success. He encouraged them; “…If I can make it, you can do better. Education is a light. Don’t let anyone deceive you.”

 The second lecturer, Dr. Adebola Adekoya,  also encouraged the students on education and the recognition that education can give them.

The program wrapped up with a Question and Answer Session, the presentation of snacks and gifts and finally, Dr. Adekoya gave the closing remarks  appreciating the students for their time, patience and attention.