Today, 4th June, 2025, is the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression. The world observes the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression—a solemn reminder of the physical, emotional, and psychological harm inflicted upon children in conflict zones and abusive environments. This day, established by the United Nations in 1982, underscores the global commitment to safeguarding children's rights and well-being. In Nigeria, where over 10.5 million children remain out of school, initiatives like Tsion Academy are pivotal in addressing these challenges. Founded in 2023 by Abayomi Adéọlá Della, Tsion Academy is a tuition-free institution dedicated to providing quality education to children from low-income communities in Ile-Ife, Osun State. The Academy's mission is clear: to reintegrate over 1,000 out-of-school children into the educational system by 2030. By offering a holistic curriculum that combines academic excellence with moral and emotional development, Tsion Academy aims to break the cycle of poverty and vulnerability that many Nigerian children face. (guardian.ng)The relevance of Tsion Academy's work is further highlighted by alarming statistics from the UN Secretary-General's Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict. In 2023 alone, 11,649 children were killed or maimed, 8,655 were recruited or used in armed conflicts, and 1,470 suffered sexual violence. Nigeria ranks among the nine least safe countries for children, emphasizing the urgent need for protective and educational interventions.
Education serves as a powerful tool against such aggression. By equipping children with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and a sense of purpose, institutions like Tsion Academy provide them with alternatives to violence and exploitation. The Academy's recent expansion, marked by the launch of a second campus in April 2025, signifies its commitment to reaching more vulnerable children and offering them a safe haven for learning and growth. (blog.tsionacademy.org.ng)Beyond academics, Tsion Academy fosters a nurturing environment where children can heal from past traumas and build resilience. Through counseling services, extracurricular activities, and community engagement, the Academy addresses the multifaceted needs of its students, ensuring they are not only educated but also emotionally supported.Community involvement is integral to Tsion Academy's success. Initiatives like the "Big Brother/Sister Programme" and the "Education Fund Bank" encourage individuals and organizations to sponsor children's education, ensuring sustainability and broader impact. (tsionacademy.org.ng)As the world reflects on the plight of innocent children affected by aggression, Tsion Academy stands as a beacon of hope. Its unwavering dedication to education and child welfare exemplifies the proactive steps needed to protect and empower the next generation.
As always, to support Tsion Academy's mission or learn more about our programs, kindly visit our main website here or send us an email to hello@tsionacademy.org.ng.
Tsion Academy: Championing Education as a Shield for Innocent Children on
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