At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, education goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. The schools are dedicated to raising global citizens – young people who are aware of the world around them, respect diversity, and are prepared to make meaningful contributions both locally and internationally.

In a world that is increasingly connected, students at Verbum Dei are encouraged to think broadly, act responsibly, and embrace values that transcend borders.

What Does Global Citizenship Mean?

Global citizenship is about teaching students to:

1. Recognize Diversity – Appreciating cultural, religious, and ethnic differences.
2. Think Beyond Self – Understanding that their actions impact communities near and far.
3. Promote Justice and Fairness – Standing up for what is right and fair.
4. Care for the Environment – Recognizing the responsibility to protect the planet.
5. Engage in Service – Giving back to the community through service and leadership.

Nurturing Global Citizenship at Verbum Dei Academy (Nursery & Primary)

At the early learning stage, children are guided to see the world as a shared home:

• Stories and Lessons – Pupils learn through tales that highlight kindness, respect, and care for others.
• Celebrating Diversity – Classroom activities introduce children to cultures, foods, and traditions from around the world.
• Environmental Awareness – Pupils are taught the importance of planting trees, reducing waste, and protecting nature.
• Acts of Kindness – Simple classroom routines, like sharing and helping peers, instill values of empathy and compassion.

These small but powerful lessons lay the foundation for a global mindset.

Global Citizenship at Verbum Dei International College (Secondary)

In the secondary school, the focus expands into practical engagement and awareness:

• Cultural Exchanges – Students engage in discussions and projects about global issues.
• Debates and Seminars – Topics such as climate change, poverty, and technology prepare them to think critically.
• Community Service – Students participate in outreach programs, giving them firsthand experience in service and social responsibility.
• Leadership Opportunities – Student leaders learn to make decisions that affect not just their peers but also the larger community.

These experiences empower students to see themselves as active citizens of the world.

Why Global Citizenship Matters

1. Develops Empathy – Students learn to understand and respect different perspectives.
2. Prepares for Global Careers – In the modern workplace, cross-cultural skills are essential.
3. Strengthens Social Responsibility – Students become aware of their duty to society.
4. Encourages Innovation – Exposure to global issues inspires creativity and solutions.

Conclusion

By nurturing global citizenship, Verbum Dei Schools are raising students who are not only academically sound but also socially conscious, culturally aware, and morally grounded.

These young men and women will step into the world ready to lead, to serve, and to make a difference that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Education goes beyond textbooks—it also involves teaching children to value identity, heritage, and diversity. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, one of the most anticipated events in the school calendar is Cultural Day. It is a colorful celebration that brings together music, food, attire, dance, and traditions from Nigeria and around the world, allowing students to experience the richness of different cultures.

More than just entertainment, Cultural Day instills in students a deep respect for their roots and a greater appreciation of global diversity.

Why Cultural Day Matters

Cultural Day serves several purposes at Verbum Dei:

• Promotes Identity – Students learn about their ethnic roots and proudly display them.
• Encourages Respect – Exposure to diverse traditions fosters tolerance and understanding.
• Celebrates Diversity – The event showcases Nigeria’s multi-ethnic heritage as well as global cultures.
• Builds Confidence – Students perform on stage, speak publicly, and engage in creative presentations.

In an era of globalization, helping children embrace cultural identity while appreciating others prepares them for life in a diverse world.

Planning for the Big Day

Cultural Day is not organized overnight. Teachers, students, and parents work hand-in-hand to make it a memorable event. Preparation includes:

• Assigning students to represent specific ethnic groups or countries.
• Organizing cultural displays, skits, and dances.
• Gathering traditional attire and props.
• Preparing local delicacies and snacks for exhibition.

By the time the day arrives, the entire school is transformed into a vibrant showcase of tradition and creativity.

Cultural Day at Verbum Dei Academy

For the younger pupils, the focus is on fun, creativity, and discovery. Pupils are dressed in colorful traditional attires representing Nigeria’s major ethnic groups—Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Efik, Tiv, and more. They may also showcase simple plays, folk songs, or cultural dances.

Highlights often include:

• Traditional Songs and Rhymes – Performed by nursery pupils.
• Cultural Fashion Parade – Children proudly walk across the stage in their outfits.
• Mini-Dances – Simple performances like Bata, Atilogwu, or Sharo dances.
• Food Tasting – Pupils sample snacks like puff-puff, masa, moi-moi, and akara.

The Academy’s Cultural Day creates unforgettable memories that plant the seeds of cultural pride.

Cultural Day at Verbum Dei International College

For older students, Cultural Day takes on a deeper and more educational dimension. Beyond celebrating Nigerian ethnic groups, students also explore global cultures, sometimes representing countries like China, Brazil, India, and the United States.

Highlights often include:

• Drama Performances – Skits showcasing traditional marriage ceremonies, folktales, or historical events.
• Dance Competitions – More advanced choreography, from Atilogwu to Afrobeat-inspired fusions.
• Debates and Speeches – On topics such as “The Importance of Preserving Culture in a Globalized World.”
• Exhibition Stalls – Featuring cultural artifacts, crafts, and food.

These activities develop leadership, research, and presentation skills in students.

A Feast for the Senses

Cultural Day at Verbum Dei is a feast for the eyes, ears, and taste buds. Brightly colored wrappers, agbadas, beads, and gele add beauty to the event. The air is filled with traditional drumbeats and music. Parents and guests are often treated to cultural delicacies prepared specially for the occasion.

Food stalls are especially popular, allowing students to explore different dishes from both Nigerian ethnic groups and international cuisines.

Lessons Learned Beyond the Stage

While Cultural Day is enjoyable, its true value lies in the lessons students take away:

• Pride in Heritage – Students learn to appreciate where they come from.
• Respect for Others – Exposure to other cultures fosters tolerance.
• Teamwork – Preparing for performances teaches collaboration.
• Creativity – Students develop artistic expression through dance, drama, and fashion.

By experiencing culture in action, children gain insights no textbook could fully capture.

Voices from Cultural Day

• “When I wore my traditional attire and danced on stage, I felt proud to be Yoruba.” – Pupil, Verbum Dei Academy
• “Representing India taught me that we share more similarities with other cultures than I thought.” – Student, Verbum Dei International College
• “I love how Verbum Dei teaches our children not to lose their roots, while also respecting other people’s traditions.” – Parent

The Role of Parents and Community

Cultural Day is not just for students and teachers; it also draws parents, guardians, and community members. Parents often contribute by preparing traditional meals, lending cultural artifacts, or helping students rehearse dances at home. Their participation makes the event truly communal.

Guests are also invited to speak on cultural preservation, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Conclusion

Cultural Day at Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College is more than a school event—it is a celebration of identity, diversity, and unity. It reminds students that while they may live in a modern, globalized world, their cultural roots are a source of strength and pride.

By bringing together tradition, creativity, and learning, Verbum Dei schools ensure that their students grow into globally-minded individuals who remain grounded in their heritage. Truly, Cultural Day at Verbum Dei is a festival of learning, pride, and togetherness.