Paper/Proposal Title
Empowering Nigerian Youths for Social Change: The Convergence of Civic Education, Media, Art, and Activism
Location
M1400
Start Date
11-2-2023 1:45 PM
End Date
11-2-2023 3:15 PM
Keywords
art, activism, media, education
Abstract
This paper examines the intersection of civic education, art, and the media as powerful tools for activism, social change, resistance, and transformation, particularly in the context of Nigerian youths. Over the past few years, young Nigerians have emerged as a formidable force in advocating for social justice and good governance in what they have describes as fighting for their lives. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, this study explores how the integration of civic education, media, art, and activism empowers Nigerian youths to address social injustices and inequalities, challenge the generations that have come before, and drive meaningful transformations.
The paper then segues into the role of the media and its civic education campaigns in equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to understand their rights, engage in civic processes, and participate actively in shaping their communities. It analyzes the impact of digital Gen-Z media platforms tailored to promoting social awareness and providing alternative narratives that challenge the status quo.
Furthermore, the study examines the transformative potential of art as a medium for self-expression, storytelling, and collective action. It explores how Nigerian youth creatives utilize various art forms such as music, visual arts, poetry, and theatre to convey powerful messages, mobilize communities, and bring attention to pressing social issues.
The paper further explores grassroots organizing, protests, social media campaigns, and advocacy initiatives as effective means for youth-driven social transformation.
By examining the interconnectedness of civic education, media, art, and activism, this study takes a critical look at the innovative ways in which Nigerian youth harness all of these tools in confronting social inequalities, combat corruption, and promoting human rights. It explores what is, what has been and what is slated to come, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, civil society organizations, and youth advocates.
Author/Speaker Biographical Statement(s)
Zainab Onuh-Yahaya is a lawyer and freelance journalist with experience in the nonprofit development sector, where she tackles issues of social justice and policy reform. In her legal career, Zainab has demonstrated a deep commitment to promoting human rights and fostering sustainable development. She has actively engaged with nonprofit organizations and justice stakeholders, leveraging her expertise to develop and implement impactful programs. As a freelance journalist, Zainab covers policy and culture, community mobilization, and social injustices, particularly through the lens of minorities. She has shed light on pressing social issues and amplified the stories of marginalized groups. Her insightful articles have been published in Foreign Policy, African Arguments, BusinessInsider, and elsewhere. Through her compelling storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, Zainab has and continues to shape public discourse, foster empathy, and drive meaningful change.
Included in
Empowering Nigerian Youths for Social Change: The Convergence of Civic Education, Media, Art, and Activism
M1400
This paper examines the intersection of civic education, art, and the media as powerful tools for activism, social change, resistance, and transformation, particularly in the context of Nigerian youths. Over the past few years, young Nigerians have emerged as a formidable force in advocating for social justice and good governance in what they have describes as fighting for their lives. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives, this study explores how the integration of civic education, media, art, and activism empowers Nigerian youths to address social injustices and inequalities, challenge the generations that have come before, and drive meaningful transformations.
The paper then segues into the role of the media and its civic education campaigns in equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to understand their rights, engage in civic processes, and participate actively in shaping their communities. It analyzes the impact of digital Gen-Z media platforms tailored to promoting social awareness and providing alternative narratives that challenge the status quo.
Furthermore, the study examines the transformative potential of art as a medium for self-expression, storytelling, and collective action. It explores how Nigerian youth creatives utilize various art forms such as music, visual arts, poetry, and theatre to convey powerful messages, mobilize communities, and bring attention to pressing social issues.
The paper further explores grassroots organizing, protests, social media campaigns, and advocacy initiatives as effective means for youth-driven social transformation.
By examining the interconnectedness of civic education, media, art, and activism, this study takes a critical look at the innovative ways in which Nigerian youth harness all of these tools in confronting social inequalities, combat corruption, and promoting human rights. It explores what is, what has been and what is slated to come, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, civil society organizations, and youth advocates.
