Izehi Anuge is the visionary founder behind Shape-A-Child, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children align with core values through immersive, experiential learning. In a recent interview with Funmi Ogundare, held during the organization’s recognition of World Values Day, Anuge discussed the launch of a 12-week values-based club and competition. She highlighted the significance of instilling values in children from an early age and the importance of extracurricular activities in schools to foster social development and success in society. Here are some key excerpts from their conversation:

**Can you share what Shape-A-Child is all about?**

“I founded Shape-A-Child to empower children by aligning them with core values through immersive learning and extracurricular activities. We’ve developed various resources that help children engage with these values in impactful ways. For our current competition, we’re working with participants from four zones in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area, with plans to move on to a second zone next. During our sessions, we engage with 50 to 60 children at each location, teaching them values that resonate within their local communities. Our focus during this competition is on values aimed at preventing issues like drug abuse and sexual misconduct.”

**How do you plan to introduce the concept of values and making good choices to children in the second zone?**

“Today, we welcomed 48 children and introduced them to the essence of good values. We shared real-life case studies of children who faced peer pressure and made poor decisions, highlighting how such pressures affect choices. We also discussed personal space, equipping the kids with the mental tools to define their boundaries and recognize when they are being violated, especially regarding abuse, including sexual abuse.

“We stressed the importance of asserting their boundaries and highlighted self-discipline and self-control as crucial elements for resisting negative influences like cultism and drugs. The kids learned that self-control can guide them positively in their decision-making. I used a puzzle as an analogy for life, showing them that, like completing a puzzle, they need to focus on foundational values that shape their character. We explained that building their character is akin to piecing a puzzle together, ultimately creating a complete and beautiful picture of their lives, guided by strong values.”

**What’s been happening during the competition?**

“We began with a challenge where we selected eight pupils, nominated by their peers, to tackle the first puzzle. They managed to assemble 75 pieces in just five minutes! Next, we initiated a preliminary stage to select participants for the subsequent rounds. Though we’re still processing results, I’m confident that with consistent practice, the children will enhance their puzzle-solving skills and apply the lessons of diligence and character-building. We also introduced them to the guidelines of our new Values Club, which will further bolster their journey toward developing strong character and values.”

**Why are values important in our society?**

“To cultivate strong institutions and a vibrant economy, we need to engage in discussions around values. Institutions thrive on a culture of values, which is essential for effective operation. Teaching children values from an early age, along with the ethical standards necessary for success, is crucial. Every child should grasp the significance of values, and we must instill a shared code of ethics, as our country belongs to all of us. Values unite us and foster consideration for others.”

**What values do you believe should be prioritized?**

“We need to evaluate values across various sectors, particularly in education. It’s important to identify critical values and define our long-term goals. We also need to collaborate with the government to create appropriate policies. For instance, children should learn about culture and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to understand their role in the global community. These are foundational values that must be taught, and the government plays a pivotal role in determining which values are prioritized in our educational system.”

**How can schools better promote values?**

“I think schools are on the right track, but there’s significant room for improvement in extracurricular activities. Character development happens when children interact with peers in meaningful, structured ways. Extracurricular activities are vital for socialization, which is why we’re launching the first Shape-A-Child values-based club focused on jigsaw puzzles. Schools need to implement structures that encourage these activities as they are critical for social development.”

**Shape-A-Child has been around for eight years; where do you see the organization in the next four years?**

“While Shape-A-Child officially started eight years ago, our core mission relating to children began six years back. Our ultimate ambition is to establish values-based clubs in schools throughout Nigeria. When people think of values, we want them to associate that with Shape-A-Child. We’re not just about imparting knowledge of values; we emphasize cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral development. In four years, we envision ourselves becoming a household name in values education.”