In a significant step toward promoting responsible media consumption among young people, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has launched Media Literacy Clubs in secondary schools across Osun state
The initiative, titled “Making Safer Choices and Safeguarding Young Minds,” is designed to educate students on media literacy, foster critical thinking, and encourage the consumption of age-appropriate media content. Paul Aliwon, Deputy Director of the NFVCB at the Osun Centre office, stated at the formal flagging off ceremony of the pilot scheme in Osogbo, Osun state that the clubs will function like other school-based extra-curricular groups but will focus specifically on guiding students in responsible media habits and consumption.
With the endorsement of the Osun State Ministry of Education, the pilot phase has commenced in four selected secondary schools. According to Ailewon “we have secured approval to flag off the programme in both public and private schools and we are beginning with ten students per school and one coordinating teacher.”
Aliwon identified the objectives of the Media Literacy Clubs to include “educating students on film classifications and consumer advisories by the NFVCB, serving as youth ambassadors for the Board in
Promoting safe content consumption, both online and offline, as well as Introducing students to the film value chain and classification elements. ”
In a message to the flag off ceremony, Executive Director and Chief Executive of the NFVCB Dr. Shaibu Husseini stated that apart from providing mentorship opportunities with top actors in the industry, the programme will facilitate interaction and competitions among club members from different schools.
“Preparing students for advocacy in media safety and youth development and engaging them through a dedicated WhatsApp support line is also at the core of the NFVCB Media Literacy club” the CEO said adding that so far, the Media Literacy Club has been launched in three schools: Ataoja School of Science, Treasure Trove School, and Day Star School, with 30 student ambassadors and three coordinating teachers already active.
Whilst commending the Osun State Ministry of Education for their support towards the implementation of the schools club across the state, Dr. Shaibu remaked that the initiative represents a proactive effort by the NFVCB to empower the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate today’s complex media landscape.
OGBONNA ONWUMERE
DIRECTOR, CORPORATE AFFAIRS.
