By Elizabeth Osayande

In a bid to equip teenagers with crucial life skills, the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Education District II, in collaboration with the Master Mind Community Foundation, held a transformative workshop focused on emotional intelligence and social intelligence.

The event took place under the expert guidance of the convener of the programme, Ms. Vivian Oghene Abraham, and attracted stakeholders including the Director of Guidance and Counselling for Education District II, Maryland.

Amidst a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, the importance of emotional and social intelligence, ESI among teenagers cannot be overstated. “These competencies are essential for success in school, relationships, and life,” emphasized Abraham. “Our goal is to help students navigate the complexities of their emotions and relationships effectively.”

During the workshop, participants learned that emotional intelligence involves recognising, understanding, and managing one’s emotions and those of others. In contrast, social intelligence focuses on interpersonal skills such as empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Together, these abilities form a vital foundation for effective communication and responsible decision-making.

Themed “Mastering Emotional and Social Intelligence for Holistic Success,” the SMART TEENS Interactive Session aimed to empower students across Nigeria, particularly vulnerable groups. The programme included a comprehensive manual featuring activities and real-life lessons designed to boost confidence, resilience, and social competence among participants.

“The aim of this workshop is to enhance teenagers’ understanding of emotional and social intelligence, especially within their schools and peer interactions,” stated Abraham. “By focusing on these skills, we can help them thrive in today’s interconnected, globalized society.”

The Director of Guidance and Counselling, Education District II, echoed this sentiment, Mrs Bolanle Adeniyi stating, “It’s crucial for all stakeholders—including parents, teachers, and counsellors—to actively participate in fostering these skills among our youth. We must intensify efforts to integrate emotional and social intelligence into the educational framework.”

One participant, a student from Baptist Senior High School, shared his key takeaway from the workshop: “I learned that being kind to others is an important part of emotional and social intelligence. It’s something that can really make a difference in our relationships.”

The workshop, attended by 170 students from five secondary schools in Education District II, namely Mende Senior High School, Immaculate Heart Comprehensive High School, Ojota Grammar School, Baptist Senior High School, and Anthony Village High School, marks a significant step in the journey towards equipping the next generation with essential life skills.