As the world marks the 2026 International Day of Education with the theme “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria has called for stronger youth participation in shaping the country’s education system.
In statement signed by the National Director, SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, Mr Eghosa Erhumwunse on monday, the organisation emphasised the need to integrate the lived experiences, creativity and ideas of young people to the education system.
It stressed that global evidence shows that youth involvement in curriculum design, peer learning, youth-led research and advisory roles improves learning outcomes and strengthens ownership.
The group added that achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) in Nigeria would require a deliberate shift toward embedding youth voice, innovation and leadership in education reforms.
The organisation further said that although Nigeria has recorded progress in expanding access to schooling through curriculum reforms, teacher training and improved infrastructure, significant gaps remain.
It noted that millions of children are still out of school, while many learning environments are overcrowded, under-resourced and disconnected from the realities and aspirations of young people.
SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria said sustained efforts in school renovation, provision of learning materials, improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities, and teacher retraining were critical, but not sufficient on their own.
Highlighting its interventions, SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria said it promotes youth-led approaches through its Eco Champions platform, which equips young people with skills and tools to address community challenges.
It cited an initiative in Calabar where an Eco Champion developed a Climate Playbook to support climate education and practical action.
The organisation disclosed that 400 copies of the playbook were produced, with 360 distributed to students in eight secondary schools and 40 donated to school libraries.
It said students showed interest in practical sections on upcycling waste into reusable items, linking climate knowledge with creativity and livelihood opportunities.
SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria said such initiatives demonstrate how co-creation in learning can drive behavioural change, youth empowerment and leadership development.
The organisation called on government, educators, development partners and the private sector to move beyond rhetoric and build genuine partnerships with young people.
It also urged stakeholders to institutionalise youth participation in education planning and invest in digital, green and vocational skills, as well as safe and inclusive learning spaces.