BRICC Graduation

One of the most active of the BRICC programmes is the extra-mural education co-ordinated by Saddiq and his deputy Abdulahi.

Siddiq, education co-ordinator

Academic subjects are interwoven with the message of peace and relationship building to equip the students to withstand the pressures towards violence as well as helping them in their ordinary schoolwork.  The hope is that BRICC students will do extra well in their exams and will act as ambassadors of peace within their groups of friends.

Abdulahi

 At the end of each course a graduation event is held in the BRICC meeting room.  Today it was junior and secondary students in the morning, primary pupils in the afternoon.  I could only manage the morning session but it was very encouraging to hear about how BRICC has made a difference.  With Toby being away in the US for a few months and no one else there from BRICC management, I was asked to stand in and pass on greetings to the students on their behalf.  I think it's a rule of Nigerian meetings, always be prepared to be called on to say a few words without advance warning, perhaps that's the best way.  I wasn't the only one.  Many of the co-ordinators of other BRICC programmes were there and they had to stand up and speak too.  It amused me as Saddiq exhorted them to speak for only three minutes: "Let's see if you're white or black.  When whites are told they've got three minutes they speak for two and a half then stop.  The Nigerian has only just got going." 

It was a good humoured event with personal testimony from the co-ordinators and students.  Veronica, leader of the women's skills programme, told us that Nigerians like to make money but BRICC taught her that wisdom is better that naira. 

Madam Veronica, women's skills

"The pillars of BRICC are love and unity.  Nigerian politicians take money to we don't know where whilst we are dying.  BRICC gives everything for free. You must spread the news."

Ahmed, art co-ordinator and commended by Siddiq as being white for his short speech, revealed that BRICC gave him education in "social, moral and peace"[sic].

Monday, sports

Monday, sports co-ordinator, told the students, "BRICC does not teach you peace, you are the peace."

The senior student spoke maturely about how he has learned to resolve conflict for that is the way to avoid violence.

His deputy said she'd gained knowledge, wisdom and love.  They are the leaders of tomorrow and are keen to spread the message BRICC has taught them.

Assistant senior class rep.

The event ended with the passing round of bottles of fizzy drinks and Saddiq reiterating that he was always approachable and open to suggestions.  He then asked that if he had unwittingly offended any of his students during the course they would forgive him, a very BRICC touch to finish with.