Transforming Lives – Highlights from the Values For Daily Living International Annual Conference 2024.
The Values For Daily Living International Inaugural Annual Conference 2024 was a remarkable event that brought together visionaries, scholars, parents, educators, students, school owners and state stakeholders to explore innovative strategies and collaborative solutions to moral decadence a major challenge in the present day society. These solutions would help shape a brighter future for the next generation. The conference took place on July 13th 2024, at The Parliament Hall, Post Primary School Management Board Enugu State. The conference’s theme was “Take It Back: Building Today For a Greater Tomorrow.” The event served as a platform for open dialogue and interactive learning, fostering a sense of shared responsibility in nurturing moral values within the community.
Keynote and Guest Speakers
The keynote speech was delivered by Prof. Peter Ndubueze Mbah (Ph.D.), the Hon. Commissioner of Education. Other notable speakers included Hon. Chibueze Ofobuike, the chairman of Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State; Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro, CEO of Evergreen Group; and Mr. David Folaranmi, an advocate of drug abuse and addiction recovery. They discussed how to return values to society consciously.
The Hon. Commissioner of Education, Enugu State. Prof. Ndubueze L. Mbah (PhD)
Essay Contest
There is an annual essay contest from Values For Daily Living International and this year’s essay contest focused on senior secondary school students from both government and private schools. The topic was, “What are the common reasons why teenagers might be tempted to experiment with drugs, and what strategies can they employ to resist peer pressure and make healthy choices regarding substance use?” The contest attracted over 500 entries, which were narrowed down to 100 students for the second stage, and finally, 20 students made it to the finals.
During the conference, the top 20 essay writers were invited to receive an award of excellence. The top three essay winners were each given an award plaque, a gold medal, a certificate of excellence, and a cheque of 200,000 NGN for the second runner-up, 300,000 NGN for the first runner-up, and 500,000 NGN for the overall winner. These students came from Anambra State, Osun State, and Enugu State, respectively. The remaining 17 students, representing Benue State, Kwara State, Ireland, Ebonyi State, and Enugu State, were awarded a gold medal and a certificate of excellence each.
Engaging Panel Discussion
The role of the church, school, and home in restoring values to society was a key topic of the panel discussions. This interactive session provided deep insights into shared responsibilities in moral value restoration
Awards and Recognitions
All speakers were presented with recognition awards from the organization. The Hon. Commissioner of Education received an award for his profound impact on enhancing education; Hon. Chibueze Ofobuike was recognized for empowering youths and transforming communities; Barr. Doris Chinedu-Okoro received an award for her outstanding contribution towards advancing education; and Mr. David Folaranmi was acknowledged for his efforts in creating awareness on drug abuse and helping people overcome addiction.
Mrs Nkiru N. Chukwu, former Principal Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Enugu State. Recognition award presented to Mrs. Chukwu for her commitment in impacting the lives of students.
Award of recognition presented to Apostle Borngreat Clement, Founder and President of Pnuema Domain Ministry International, for his commitment in empowering youths and transforming communities.
Award of Recognition presented to Commissioner of Education, Prof. Ndubueze L. Mbah (PhD), for his profound impact in enhancing education.
Award of recognition presented to Dr Chibueze Lawrence Ofobuike, the Chairman of Aguata L.G.A Anambra State for his commitment in empowering youths and transforming communities.
Award of recognition presented to Mr David Folaranmi for his contribution in Drug Abuse Awareness and Addiction Recovery Coaching.
Award of recognition presented to Mr Kinsley Adonu (President Smobile) represented by Mr Aniakan, for empowering youths and transforming communities.
Special Presentations
A notable presentation on the role of the girl child in upholding Nigeria’s values and ethics was given by Akpem Comfort Msuurshima from Jewel Model Schools, Makurdi, Benue State. Additionally, a cultural display by students of Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Enugu, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
Brand Ambassadors
All top 20 essay contest finalists were appointed as brand ambassadors of VDLI. Their faces will appear on billboards in five states of the country. As ambassadors, they are expected to uphold and promote the moral values advocated by VDLI in their various environments.
Top three essay writers of the Values for Daily Living Essay Contest 2024.
First Position: Nkasiobi Igweamaka. SS3 student of Modeal Secondary School Maitama, FCT Abuja.
Second Position: David Atilola SS1 Student of Government Secondary School, Hajj Camp Osun
Third Position: Kosisochukwu Ilona. SS2 Student of Holy Child Secondary School
Isuofia, Anambra State.
Conclusion
The Values For Daily Living International inaugural annual conference was a resounding success, bringing together students, parents, scholars, educators, and community members to engage in meaningful discussions and celebrate achievements in value-based education. We are committed to continuing our efforts in promoting ethical values and moral principles, inspiring positive change in individuals and communities worldwide
