RSU launches children’s parliament, choir, to promote leadership and talent development
Two major assets that may help the Rivers State University (RSU) meet new set targets have been set up by Isaac Zeb-Obipi, the Vice-Chancellor who has inaugurated the ‘RSU Children’s Parliament’ and the ‘University Student/Pupil Choir’ as part of efforts to promote inclusion, leadership development and talent discovery among children within the university community.
Two major assets that may help the Rivers State University (RSU) meet new set targets have been set up by Isaac Zeb-Obipi, the Vice-Chancellor who has inaugurated the ‘RSU Children’s Parliament’ and the ‘University Student/Pupil Choir’ as part of efforts to promote inclusion, leadership development and talent discovery among children within the university community.
The VC announced the initiatives during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration where he administered the 2026 Children’s Day Pledge to children drawn from the RSU Staff School, International Secondary School (ISS), the University Women Association Educational Centre and staff children from other schools within Port Harcourt.
To constitute the leadership of the Children’s Parliament, representatives were nominated from the three schools, along with a representative for staff children from other schools. Anita Ihugba Wome of the International Secondary School emerged as Speaker, while Rejoice Amanyie of the Staff School was elected Deputy Speaker. Abinye Jason of the UWA Educational Centre was selected as Clerk and Cherish Izeoma of Compass International School became a member representative.
The VC said the initiative would provide children with a platform to express their views and contribute ideas on issues affecting them within the university community. He noted that it was designed to build confidence, leadership skills and active participation among children.
The VC directed the Acting Director of Corporate Affairs to finalize arrangements for the commencement of sittings and the provision of parliamentary regalia.
The Professor also formally announced the commencement of the University Student/Pupil Choir, an initiative previously introduced during the 2026 Easter Hymnal Evening. The choir, which will perform at major university events, will include students from the Staff School, International Secondary School and the UWA Educational Centre.
Speaking on the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” the VC reaffirmed the university’s commitment to child development through improved access to educational support, libraries, laboratories and ICT facilities during holidays. He also encouraged school administrators to make use of the university’s ICT Innovation Hub for hands-on digital training.
He further appreciated Sim Fubara, the Rivers State governor, for the implementation of the harmonized minimum wage for university staff, noting that improved welfare would positively influence family stability and child development.
Earlier, Victoria Ayah Zeb-Obipi, President of the Rivers State University Women Association, described the Children’s Day theme as a call for collective responsibility in protecting, including and empowering every Nigerian child.
She emphasized the importance of quality education, healthcare, moral upbringing and equal opportunities for children regardless of tribe, religion, disability or economic background.
Delivering a sermon titled “Little Hands in God’s Hand,” Emmanuel Awortu, a cleric, emphasized love, inclusion and proper guidance for children.
He stressed that every child is valuable and not an accident of nature, urging parents, schools, churches, and society to create supportive environments that enable children to thrive. He also cautioned against discrimination of any kind and encouraged parents to serve as positive role models in order to secure a better future for their children.
The event featured the cutting of the Children’s Day cake and performances by children from the three schools.
