DWU Social and Religious Studies students conduct community awareness

Final year students from the Social and Religious Studies Department at Divine Word University conducted an awareness program at Kanenuning Primary School in Dimer Village, Sumkar District, yesterday as part of their final assessment under the Social Psychology unit.

The year 4 students visited the school to raise awareness on social issues currently affecting school- aged children and communities while also engaging students through interactive learning sessions.

Topics discussed during the awareness included the influence of social media, emotional intelligence, and attitude formation; all of which fall under the Social Psychology course.

The students conducted interactive sessions with primary school students from Grades 6 to 8 and were assessed by the unit coordinator, Shirley Bokai.

The program was divided into two parts.

In the morning, the university students conducted awareness sessions focusing on major social issues currently affecting communities, with strong emphasis placed on law and order, education, and student behavior.

Parents and students from Grades 1 to 8 attended the program, which organisers described as successful and meaningful in helping young people better understand social challenges and positive behaviour.

Final year Social and Religious Studies student Nicholas Gamuna said the awareness was one way of encouraging young people to contribute meaningfully to society and make a positive impact in their communities.

“I call on the younger generation to contribute meaningfully to the province and nation,” he said.

Meanwhile, fellow student Victor Otto, who presented on emotional intelligence, highlighted the importance of learning how to manage emotions.

He explained that emotional control is important because when people learn to control their emotions, they are more likely to make wise decisions, avoid conflict, and reduce social problems in communities.

Victor said taking part in the awareness program was meaningful for him as it provided an opportunity to give back to the province while helping younger students understand important life values.

Headmistress Jane Naru thanked the university students for visiting the school, describing it as the first of its kind for the school to host university students for an awareness program.

“This is the first time we have welcomed university students to come and speak with our students. I hope our children have learned many important lessons today,” she said.

Ms. Naru further encouraged the university students to continue carrying out meaningful work that positively impacts the younger generation and contributes to building a better future.

“I encourage these young leaders to continue this important work that impacts the younger generation and helps shape the future,” she added.

She described the initiative as important in guiding students and creating awareness on issues affecting young people in communities today.

The awareness program concluded successfully, with students, parents, and teachers expressing appreciation for the initiative and the positive messages shared during the visit.