US Consulate, Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni mentor Akwa Ibom students

Secondary school students in Akwa Ibom State have received mentorship on leadership, career development and digital literacy through an initiative by the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN), as stakeholders seek to prepare young people for responsible leadership.

The third phase of the association’s Future Forward Mentorship Programme was held on 21 October at Uyo High School, bringing together students, mentors, education stakeholders and representatives of partner organisations.

The programme, themed “Building Purpose-Driven Student Leaders,” focused on equipping students with practical skills and guidance to navigate their academic, personal and future professional lives.

Nicole Compton of the United States Consulate General in Lagos, in her opening address, commended the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education for supporting youth education and development.

She also praised the school’s management and MWFAAN for sustaining the mentorship initiative, calling on the students to take advantage of the opportunity by asking questions, exchanging ideas and learning actively from their mentors.

Ms Compton’s remarks highlighted the importance of engaging young people early in their development, particularly in building the confidence, knowledge and values needed to assume leadership responsibilities.

The vice-principal of Uyo High School, Emem Udofia, welcomed the organisers and commended MWFAAN for bringing what she described as an internationally benchmarked mentorship initiative directly to the students.

Susanne Ogunleye, the project’s overall coordinator, also delivered a goodwill message, encouraging the students to use the mentorship network to develop their abilities and achieve their potential.

The sessions covered inclusive leadership and civic integrity, self-confidence and effective communication, career discovery and digital literacy, as well as personal well-being and essential life skills.

The interactive format enabled students to engage directly with facilitators, reflect on their aspirations and consider practical ways to apply the lessons in school and their everyday lives.

Participants also received educational materials, including branded school bags, reusable water bottles and writing materials, to support their learning.

James Akan, MWFAAN’s publicity secretary, coordinated the event, with support from Uyi Effiom, the association’s South-east zonal coordinator.

The Future Forward Mentorship Programme is part of MWFAAN’s efforts to empower young Nigerians and nurture a generation of confident, responsible and purpose-driven leaders.

The association said the initiative seeks to provide secondary school students with the guidance and practical knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their education, personal development and future careers.