Boy Child Day: SDG2, NSCW Celebrate with Gifts and Mentorship in Calabar

 BOY CHILD DAY: SDG2, NSCW CELEBRATE WITH GIFTS AND MENTORSHIP IN CALABAR

The National President of the Nigerian Society of Campus Writers (NSCW) and Host of the National Writers Conference tagged *Writerference*, Cynthia Chinenye Maduekwe, popularly known as CyanahPEN, has collaborated with the Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) team to mark this year’s International Day of the Boy Child with a transformative school outreach initiative. 

The event was held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Government Secondary School Akim, Calabar, Cross River State.

This year’s commemoration was themed around investing in the growth and development of the boy child, stressing the belief in their limitless potential and the importance of creating a balanced focus on the needs of both male and female children. 

CyanahPEN and the SDG2 team spearheaded a comprehensive program that combined education, empowerment, and humanitarian support.

The celebration began with an opening prayer and a welcome address from the organizing team. Students, staff, and special guests were introduced to the purpose and significance of the International Boy Child Day, which is globally recognized to spotlight the challenges facing boys and the need for intentional mentorship.

The keynote address delivered by Cynthia Maduekwe emphasized nurturing the emotional and intellectual well-being of the boy child. She urged educators, guardians, and stakeholders to “nurture the heart of a boy with love, guide him with wisdom, and empower him with opportunities,” noting that a boy’s future impacts the family, community, and nation at large.

In her speech, CyanahPEN expressed concern about the growing neglect of boy children in modern societal development discourses. She reiterated the need for consistent support mechanisms to enable boys reach their full potential without falling into cycles of violence, illiteracy, and poor emotional health.

One of the highlights of the program was an interactive Q\&A session where students were given the opportunity to share their thoughts, ask questions, and receive mentorship. This segment fostered a participatory atmosphere, encouraging students to voice their aspirations and challenges.

The event also featured the distribution of support packages to deserving students. The SDG2 (Zero Hunger) team shared items including educational materials, snacks, and hygiene kits as a show of support for the students’ academic and personal development.

These gestures, according to the SDG2 team, symbolize their ongoing commitment to eradicating hunger and ensuring that every child, regardless of gender, has the necessary support to thrive in school and life.

The outreach left a lasting impression on the students and teachers of Government Secondary School Akim. It was a timely reminder of the critical need to pay attention to the welfare of boys, foster equity in advocacy, and provide a nurturing environment for all children.

As the event concluded, the NSCW President reaffirmed her dedication to using the power of words, outreach, and collaboration to build a generation of well-rounded youths. "Together," she said, "we can raise responsible, empowered, and visionary boys who will grow into men of integrity and impact.”

NSCW Unveils Theme and Details for 2025 Writerference 2.0

 

NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF CAMPUS WRITERS UNVEILS THEME AND DETAILS FOR 2025 WRITERFERENCE 2.0

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Society of Campus Writers (NSCW) has officially unveiled the theme and key details for its highly anticipated National Writers Conference 2025, tagged Writerference 2.0. Themed "The Digital Writer & Use of Artificial Intelligence", this conference seeks to explore the intersections of creativity, technology, and social responsibility in modern writing.

The announcement was made in a statement by the National President of the Society, Ms. Maduekwe Cynthia Chinenye, popularly known as CyanahPEN. She emphasized that the conference aims to prepare writers for the evolving demands of the digital age while promoting ethical writing practices through the integration of artificial intelligence and other technological tools.

The sub-theme, "Writing the Future through the Convergence of Creativity, Technology, and Social Responsibility", highlights the Society's commitment to shaping a generation of writers who are not only innovative but also conscious of their societal impact. Discussions, workshops, and activities during the event will delve into leveraging AI in storytelling, ethical dilemmas in digital writing, and the role of writers in driving social change.

Scheduled for May 9, 2025, Writerference 2.0 promises to be a transformative experience for participants. The event will feature a variety of engaging activities, including a city tour, a hospital and orphanage visitation, a street kids and school outreach, and a meet-and-greet session. These initiatives aim to foster camaraderie among writers and create avenues for meaningful social impact.

One of the conference's highlights is the National Writing Competition, also known as the Write-A-Thon. Writers from diverse backgrounds will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and skill, with participants receiving recognition and prizes for their work. Additionally, the conference will include a Prison Reach program, stressing the Society’s dedication to using writing as a tool for rehabilitation and empowerment.

Ms. Maduekwe called on stakeholders, institutions, and corporate organizations to support the conference through sponsorships and collaborations. "The Writerference 2.0 is not just an event; it is a movement to redefine the future of writing. We invite everyone passionate about writing and technology to join us," she said.

The conference will also provide a platform for writers to network, learn from industry experts, and gain insight into cutting-edge trends shaping the writing profession. It promises to attract students, academics, professionals, and enthusiasts from across the nation.

Interested individuals or organizations are encouraged to participate and support this groundbreaking initiative. For sponsorships or more information, the National President, Ms. Maduekwe Cynthia Chinenye (CyanahPEN), can be reached at 08094110318.

The Nigerian Society of Campus Writers continues to be at the forefront of empowering young writers and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. With Writerference 2.0, the Society is poised to inspire a new era of writing excellence and responsibility in Nigeria and beyond.

Mark your calendars and prepare to join the conversation about the future of writing!

 

Writers Tour Commemorates Late Prof. Chinua Achebe’s 94th Birthday

 

WRITERS TOUR COMMEMORATES LATE PROF. CHINUA ACHEBE’S 94TH BIRTHDAY

 

Today, the literary community comes together to honor the life, works, and legacy of the late Prof. Chinua Achebe on what would have been his 94th birthday. Spearheaded by the Nigeria Society of Campus Writers, under the leadership of its first female National President, Maduekwe Cynthia Chinenye (CyanahPEN), the maiden edition of the Writers Tour celebrates Achebe’s monumental contributions to African literature.

The event, scheduled to run from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM, is designed to immerse participants in the spirit of storytelling, reflection, and inspiration. The program will feature a variety of activities, including a networking session, a book reading, giveaways, and an engaging discussion on the upcoming National Writers Conference 2025, tagged Writerference 2.0. Special guest Amb. Mercy Obidake, a renowned digital influencer with over 1.2 million followers, will share insights on digital skills for writers.

Cynthia Chinenye expressed her admiration for Achebe, stating, “Every November 16th, we honor the literary giant whose works have reshaped how African stories are told and understood. His iconic novel, Things Fall Apart, remains a cornerstone of African literature, challenging stereotypes and celebrating our cultural heritage.”

In her heartfelt tribute, Chinenye emphasized Achebe’s timeless relevance. “Achebe’s profound exploration of identity, tradition, and human experience continues to inspire generations. His legacy teaches us that our stories matter, our voices are important, and our truths deserve recognition,” she said.

The event also marks the beginning of a series of Writers Tours, envisioned as platforms to foster unity among writers and to honor African literary pioneers. Participants will reflect on Achebe’s courage in addressing themes such as colonialism, social justice, and cultural preservation.

Highlights of the evening include a session titled Read a Book with Q&A, which invites attendees to engage deeply with Achebe’s works and draw lessons for contemporary times. “Achebe’s words challenge us to speak truth to power and to celebrate the diversity of our narratives,” Chinenye added.

The society’s president concluded her remarks with a profound note of gratitude: “Thank you, Prof. Achebe, for being a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Your legacy lives on through us, the writers who continue to draw inspiration from your brilliance.”

The Writers Tour is a fitting tribute to Achebe’s enduring impact on African and global literature. It serves as a reminder of his pioneering spirit and his unwavering commitment to telling authentic African stories.

NSCW Announces 5-Day Virtual Workshop for Emerging African Writers

 

NSCW ANNOUNCES 5-DAY VIRTUAL WORKSHOP FOR EMERGING AFRICAN WRITERS

 

The African Writers Mingle Workshop & Masterclass (Mentorship) is set to take place from Friday, November 1st through Tuesday, November 5th, 2024, promising five evenings of immersive learning, inspiration, and valuable connections. Hosted by Maduekwe Cynthia Chinenye (CyanahPEN), the first female National President of the Nigerian Society of Campus Writers, this virtual event aims to provide a vibrant platform for writers across Africa and beyond.

In a groundbreaking assembly, the African Writers Mingle will feature international speakers and renowned writers from across the continent, including voices from Rwanda, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Cameroon, Ghana, and Uganda. This unique convergence will not only address the craft of writing but will also emphasize pathways for professional growth under the empowering theme, “You Can Be That Champ & Guru.”

A highlight of this event will be the unveiling of the Fees We Deserve Magazine, a publication dedicated to promoting African writers’ rights, stories, and insights. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts across diverse genres, participate in practical workshops and masterclasses, and engage in mentorship sessions designed to foster individual growth.

Each day will offer a series of workshops on topics ranging from creative writing and poetry to digital publishing and professional development. Cynthia Maduekwe, a shortlisted writer in prestigious events such as the African Writers Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, and the Think Canada Fair in Accra, Ghana, expressed excitement about hosting this event, stating, “Our goal is to empower African writers to confidently pursue excellence in their craft while fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support.”

Networking opportunities will be abundant, enabling participants to connect with other writers, editors, and publishers. This is an unparalleled chance for emerging and established writers to make lasting connections within the African literary landscape and explore collaborative opportunities with professionals worldwide.

In addition to invaluable mentorship and knowledge-sharing, the event will feature an exclusive giveaway session, providing registered attendees with exciting resources to support their writing journeys. To stay updated on this and other giveaways, participants are encouraged to follow event coordinator 6 Clement Joshua on social media.

The workshop will be hosted on the Nigerian Society of Campus Writers National WhatsApp University Platform to maximize accessibility for writers everywhere. Interested participants can join via the WhatsApp link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BGAstOXTg5yJaKsSywt5v6.

With support from the NSCW community, the African Writers Mingle is a can’t-miss event for writers and literary enthusiasts eager to engage in an interactive, collaborative, and educational experience. The organizers invite all aspiring and seasoned writers to join this virtual workshop to enhance their skills, network, and transform their literary aspirations.

For more information and registration inquiries, contact: Cynthia Maduekwe (CyanahPEN) – 1st Female NSCW National President Email: maduekwecynthia@gmail.com Phone: +234 809 411 0318