The Thinking Cap Initiative’s Journey on Igniting Brighter Futures

By Bem Abubaker

It is common for people and groups to voice complaints about the issues present in society. However, complaining without action has never resulted in progressive change. To make a difference, it is important to redirect our energy towards new strategies that challenge the status quo and create opportunities for progress. One area where we can all make a difference in our communities is through volunteering, activism, or simply being an engaged citizen. We can educate ourselves on the issues that matter most to us, take steps to raise awareness, build support for our causes, and collaborate with others who share our goals. By working together and staying focused, we can create real change and build a better future too.

This is what Thinking Cap Literacy Initiative (TCLI), founded in 2012, is investing time, human capital and resources into. TCLI's mission is a much-needed effort in Nigeria, where the illiteracy rate is 31%, and the education system struggles to provide quality education to all. Through innovative and creative teaching methods, TCLI creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment for students. By encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving, TCLI empowers young minds to develop skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. These skills are valuable in today's constantly evolving job market, where individuals need to be adaptable and possess the ability to think outside the box. Thus, TCLI's commitment to combating illiteracy in Nigeria is not just a noble cause, but it is also a practical solution to equip the country's youth with the tools they need to succeed in life.

Aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4, which champions quality education, the organization boasts a multifaceted approach to achieving literacy and educational excellence among children and young people. One of TCLI's key objectives is promoting core moral values, language proficiency, and a deep appreciation for cultural heritage. They believe that these values are essential in creating well-rounded individuals who are capable of contributing positively to their communities and society at large.

Moreover, their commitment to providing scholarships and bursaries to deserving young individuals ensures that financial barriers do not impede their educational pursuits. This is especially important in disadvantaged communities where access to education may be limited due to financial constraints. Projects are strategically designed to tackle issues that often keep underserved children away from school, ensuring they not only overcome these challenges but also remain in the educational system.

TCLI also understands the importance of providing emergency interventions and support to communities in need. They believe that every child deserves access to quality education and that no child should be left behind due to circumstances beyond their control. That's why the organization works tirelessly to ensure that young learners across the globe have access to the education they deserve. Whether it's responding to natural disasters, conflict situations, or other emergencies, TCLI is committed to being there for communities in need.

The TCLI team of dedicated professionals works closely with local partners and stakeholders to provide immediate assistance, including shelter, food, and medical care, as well as education and psychosocial support. By working collaboratively with community members, TCLI is able to provide tailored solutions that address the unique chal- lenges faced by each community. The goal is to empower individuals and communities to take charge of their own futures and build a brighter tomorrow for themselves and their children.

Supporting education and promoting literacy

At the Thinking Cap Literacy Initiative, their unwavering dedication to literacy and education shines as a beacon of hope for the future. They firmly believe that every child deserves access to quality education.

Thinking Cap Literacy Initiative mainly works with kids aged 5 to 18 and has operations in seven Nigerian states.

TCLI's approach to promoting education and literacy is both creative and practical. The organization recognizes the importance of hands-on activities and engagement to foster a love of reading and learning in children. As such, the annual spelling bee contests are a perfect way to encourage children to improve their spelling and reading skills. These contests not only provide a fun and exciting environment for children to compete, but they also promote healthy academic competition and encourage children to strive for excellence.

In addition to the spelling bee contests, TCLI also offers programs and projects that are tailored to meet the specific needs of the communities they serve. This pragmatic approach ensures that resources are utilized in the most effective way possible, and that the impact of their work is felt in a meaningful way. Ultimately, TCLI's success in promoting education and literacy is due to their ability to creatively engage children in learning while also recognizing the practical needs of the communities they serve. Literacy Workshops aim to sensitize children on issues such as plagiarism and healthy reading habits. They are also aimed at teaching them excellent writing. These workshops are held in schools across the country and participants are awarded certificates of participation.

TCLI also fosters competition in Writing and Mathematics. As an organization that believes literacy is not restricted to reading and spelling alone, TCLI organizes writing competitions for children to showcase their writing skills and talents. The Math competition also presents a platform for students to exercise their brain power and sharpen their mathematical skills.

The Scholarship Drive has been an incredible success, providing dozens of economically disadvantaged children with the opportunity to receive primary and secondary education. Many of these children are orphans or raised by single parents, making it difficult for them to afford the cost of education. The scholarship drive has been a lifeline for these children, allowing them to receive an education that would have otherwise been impossible. The impact of this drive on these children's lives cannot be overstated, as it has opened doors of opportunity that were once closed.

The Portable Library Project has also had a significant impact on underprivileged communities and schools. The project's goal is to provide portable bookshelves stocked with educational resources to communities that lack access to libraries. This initiative has been incredibly successful, with bookshelves being delivered to a variety of communities, including IDP camps and schools without libraries. This project is a testament to the power of education and the incredible impact that access to learning resources can have on children's lives. The portable library project is changing lives, one bookshelf at a time.

Through its various interventions, TCLI has successfully helped over 2,000 children between 2012 and 2021. These interventions have included scholarships, mentorship programs, and workshops aimed at empowering children and equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed in life. TCLI has also established partnerships with various organizations that share its vision of empowering children. These partnerships have allowed TCLI to reach even more children and provide them with the support they need. Some of the organizations TCLI has partnered with include Girls Should Thrive Initiative, NASCO, Nutri-C, Indomie, Toyin Wiggins Centre for Leadership & Mentoring Initiative, SexEd Foundation, and Reformation Wall Classical School. TCLI's commitment to its mission has also led to the successful graduation of its very first secondary school student under its scholarship scheme in July 2023.