Is the Future Ready for Children? | Safiya Alkali Ajikolo | TEDxMaiduguri

Child rights advocate Safiya Alkali Ajikolo questions whether the future is being built in a way that is ready for children. Drawing on her experience growing up in Borno State, Nigeria, she argues that society should focus not only on preparing children for tomorrow but also on preparing the future for them. The talk covers teaching methods that inspire curiosity, safe learning environments, mentorship and policies that centre the next generation. The talk was given at TEDxMaiduguri, an independently organized TEDx event.

• Questions whether society is preparing a future that is ready for children
• Ideas on teaching methods, safe learning environments and mentorship
• Argument that children's future is shaped by today's decisions and policies
• Speaker is a child rights advocate from Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Safiya Alkali challenges the conventional thinking around preparing children for the future, drawing on her experiences and the realities of growing up in Borno State, Nigeria. She argues that while we constantly speak about preparing children for tomorrow, we rarely question whether we are building a future that is ready for them. From reimagining teaching methods that inspire curiosity and creativity to creating safe learning environments, strengthening mentorship, and shaping policies that place the next generation at their centre, Safiya makes the case for a fundamental shift in how society invests in children. She questions the familiar notion that children are simply the leaders of tomorrow, arguing that their future is already being shaped by the decisions we make today. Her message is simple but powerful: Rather than focusing solely on preparing children for the future, we must also take responsibility for preparing the future for them. Safiya Alkali Ajikolo is a child rights advocate from Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. She serves as a Girl Champion with Save the Children and is the first Youth Ambassador for 1inclusion4all. Through her work with national and international organizations, she advocates for children’s rights, girls’ leadership, education, and meaningful youth participation. Safiya has represented children and young people on national and global platforms, including Geneva Peace building week, and the Global Youth and Adolescent Consultations for the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. She is passionate about ensuring that every child has the opportunity to be heard, thrive, and shape the future. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx