King Charles III and Katmaan Senlong at the Nigerian Diaspora in the UK Reception.

Andrew Parsons – Photo credit

The day before Katmaan Senlong walked into St. James Palace London, Nigeria launched its national consultation on protecting children from social media. What happened next is a story about timing, purpose and a country finding its place in a global conversation

WORCESTER / ABUJA – On Tuesday 10th March 2026, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, announced the launch of a national public consultation on child online safety, exploring age restrictions on social media platforms, stronger age verification systems and greater accountability for digital platforms. The consultation, developed in partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, represents one of the most significant steps Nigeria has taken towards protecting its children in the digital age.

The following evening, Mrs Katmaan Senlong, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Rupetta Group, attended a function at St. James Palace London. In the course of conversation, His Majesty King Charles III remarked sharply and without hesitation that children should be kept away from social media, noting the importance of education as he did so. Mrs Senlong, a founder of schools and an ICT Lawyer by training, received those words as a woman who had spent years arriving at exactly the same conclusion herself.

The two moments, Nigeria’s own policy move and the King’s remark to Katmaan at St. James Palace London, were separated by a single day and an ocean. Together they tell one story. Nigeria is not behind on this issue. Nigeria is moving, and the world is moving with it.

This is a global tide. Australia became the first country to ban social media for children under the age of 16, with the law taking effect in December 2025 and resulting in the immediate removal of 4.7 million underage accounts. France voted in January 2026 to ban children under 15 from all platforms, by 130 votes to 21 in its National Assembly, after evidence emerged of widespread sleep disruption, falling self-esteem and exposure to harmful content among teenagers. Norway, Denmark, Malaysia and Spain are all advancing similar legislation. The United Kingdom itself opened a formal parliamentary consultation in March 2026. Nigeria is now seated at that same table.

King Charles has held this concern for some time. In September 2025, following a private church service in Scotland, His Majesty spoke candidly about the harm social media was causing young people, describing it as deeply troubling. His King’s Trust International, founded on his initiative, already operates in Nigeria, supporting over 30,000 young people across nine African countries with programmes in digital skills, enterprise and employment. His Majesty understands what is at stake for young Nigerians because he has been paying attention.

Mrs Senlong has been paying attention too. Swotters International was founded on the conviction that a child engaged in chess, science, structured learning and physical activity does not need the hollow approval of a social media feed to feel valued. Her children have competed in world record chess events. They have been celebrated on international stages. They have been given something real to hold onto. That is precisely the kind of educational philosophy that the King referenced when the conversation turned to children and screens at St. James Palace London.

Mrs Senlong reflected on the week’s remarkable sequence of events with characteristic focus.

“Nigeria moved first and that matters enormously. What the government has begun is bold, necessary and timely. The question being asked globally is no longer whether children should be protected from social media. The question is how quickly we act and how wisely we build the alternatives. Swotters International has always been about building those alternatives. We are proud to stand on the right side of this moment.”

Next week, President Bola Tinubu will arrive at Windsor Castle for Nigeria’s first state visit to the United Kingdom in 37 years. Education, technology and youth empowerment sit at the heart of that agenda. Nigeria arrives at that meeting not as a country waiting to be advised but as a country already in motion, already consulting its citizens, already passing legislation through its House of Representatives with the Child Online Access Protection Bill, and already producing educators who are shaping this conversation from the inside out.

The King’s words at St. James Palace London were quick and clear. Nigeria was already thinking the same thing.

About Mrs Katmaan Senlong

Mrs Katmaan Senlong is the President and CEO of the Rupetta Group, comprising Swotters International Training Institute UK, Swotters International The Swotters Nursery and Primary School Abuja, Nigeria,  Tech Swimmers Club for Kids and Rupetta Media. She holds an LLM in Information Technology and Telecommunications Law from the University of Strathclyde and a law degree from the University of Jos, Nigeria. She is based in Worcester, United Kingdom.

Media Enquiries: Rupetta Group Communications info@rupettagroup.com Worcester, United Kingdom | Abuja, Nigeria

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In 2023, we launched our unique Swotters International Tech Swimmers Club here in Abuja. This innovative program intertwines coding, swimming, and chess, providing children with a stimulating and enjoyable way to learn diverse skills. While this blend might appear unconventional, each activity offers its own distinctive benefits.

Through coding, we guide children to solve problems and develop logical thinking. Swimming promotes physical fitness and nurtures teamwork. Chess enhances strategic thinking and cultivates patience. Put together, they’re a powerful combination that helps kids grow mentally, emotionally, and physically.

Our Tech Swimmers Club made a splash in the summer of 2023 with a program filled with educational fun. We welcomed children from various backgrounds to participate, offering them an opportunity to acquire new skills, form friendships, and boost their confidence.

As the summer concluded, we celebrated the progress of all participants with a grand festivity involving kids, their educators, and families. The parents were overjoyed to witness the significant growth and learning their children achieved over the summer.

The summer camp was a resounding success. It was more than just coding, swimming, or chess – it was about fostering a love for learning, building self-confidence, and developing essential life skills in children.

The triumphant run of the Tech Swimmers Club in 2023 demonstrates how innovative approaches can effectively help children realize their potential. After all, isn’t that the essence of education?

So here’s to Mrs. Senlong, our dedicated team at Swotters International, and, most importantly, the wonderful children who participated. Together, they transformed the summer of 2023 into an unforgettable season of learning, growth, and joy.

Stay tuned for more exciting programs and activities from Swotters International. Let’s dive together into a future brimming with possibilities. At Swotters International, we firmly believe in the potential of every child to make a remarkable difference.

Our innovative approach to education has been recognized and featured by notable news agencies. You can read about our work on one of Nigeria’s leading news platforms Nannews. We are honoured to have been highlighted by this outlet, and we invite you to read more about our initiatives on their websites.

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Our CEO, Mrs Katmaan Senlong, an ardent education advocate, emphasized the importance of participating in chess. “The unique skills kids learn from playing chess – reasoning, logical thinking, strategic organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to think outside the box – are invaluable. But more than just celebrating International World Chess Day, we’re here to inspire youths to embrace this noble game. It’s not just a game for geniuses, it’s a game for everyone because today, we’re celebrating the fact that we are one family.”

As the proud organizers of this World Chess Day Tournament, we at Tech Swimmers Club feel the need to create greater awareness about the game in our country. We believe in introducing chess into the school curriculum and encouraging parents to enrol their kids in chess clubs, where they can acquire unique transferable skills.

We are doing our bit by organizing a first-of-its-kind Summer Tech, Swimming, Coding, and Chess program for kids aged six to 12 years. It’s an innovative blend of learning opportunities that teach kids coding, chess, and swimming – a combination that broadens their learning spectrum.

“We’re preparing these children with skills like coordination, focus, discipline, concentration, and attention to detail. These are keywords in job applications nowadays. So, we are here to teach these children these skills because I am a firm believer in the notion that practice makes perfect,” says Katmaan.

Tech Swimmers Chess, Coding, Swimming Club

Our upcoming Summer Tech Swimmers Coding, Chess, and Swimming Club is designed to engage children productively. The program offers generous discounts and scholarships to provide opportunities for kids who might otherwise miss out.

“We have a wide range of unique activities in the Tech Swimmers’ Club,” assures Katmaan.

The program is packed with activities that kids will enjoy and find beneficial when they become employable. Classes on emotional intelligence, health and fitness, negotiation skills, and presentation skills are among the various offerings.

“But we’re not stopping at that. We’re also organizing numerous events to bring kids and young people together. Football and scrabble, academic and intellectual games that work out the mind, will be part of the agenda. We encourage young people to partake in this unique combination of games, activities, and lectures,” adds Katmaan.

Join us at Tech Swimmers Club as we shape the future leaders of tomorrow with the skills they need today.

Our education approach has gained recognition and has been featured by esteemed news agencies. Learn more about our work on Leadership.ng and Nannews.ng. We are honoured by these prestigious outlets’ recognition of our efforts and encourage you to explore their websites.

Watch a recap video of the event here

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1. Encourage Curiosity

Curiosity is the fuel that drives learning and innovation. It propels us to explore the unknown and ask the questions that lead to new discoveries. Therefore, nurturing your child’s curiosity is paramount in their developmental journey. You can do this by asking them thought-provoking questions, exploring new environments together, and fostering a love for learning. Every question they ask, every new place they want to explore, and every book they want to read is an opportunity for growth and development. Remember, a curious mind is an active mind.

2. Cultivate Confidence

Confidence is a cornerstone of success in any endeavour. It’s the belief in oneself and one’s abilities. As a parent, you can cultivate confidence in your child by celebrating their achievements, no matter how small. Be their biggest cheerleader. Encourage them to take on new challenges, and when they stumble, teach them to bounce back and try again. A positive and resilient mindset can build a strong foundation of self-confidence in your child.

3. Embrace Failure as Growth

Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of the journey to success. Teach your child to view failure as an opportunity for growth. When they make a mistake, help them understand what went wrong and how they can do better next time. Please encourage them to keep trying until they succeed. Remember, every great leader has faced setbacks but what sets them apart is their perseverance and ability to learn from their mistakes.

4. Foster Creativity

Creativity is the ability to think outside the box and to see the world in unique and imaginative ways. It’s an essential skill that can be nurtured through various forms of artistic expression. Provide your child with opportunities to express themselves creatively, whether it’s through painting, writing, dancing, or any other form of art. Remember, creativity is not about producing a masterpiece; it’s about expressing oneself and seeing the world from different perspectives.

5. Lead by Example

Children are keen observers. They learn more from what you do than what you say. Therefore, be a good role model for your child. Show them how to be kind, honest, and hardworking through your actions. Your behaviour sets a precedent for how they should act and treat others. So, lead by example and let your actions speak louder than your words.

In conclusion, parenting is a journey of nurturing, guiding, and moulding your child’s potential. By encouraging curiosity, cultivating confidence, embracing failure as growth, fostering creativity, and leading by example, you can help your child grow into a well-rounded individual. Join us at Swotters International, where we provide a nurturing environment that fosters all these qualities and more in our young members. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our parenting tips series!

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1. Stay Motivated!

Coding can indeed be a challenging journey, but remember, every expert was once a beginner. To stay motivated, set small, achievable goals for yourself. It could be as simple as mastering a new function, debugging a piece of code, or creating a basic app. Celebrate these victories, no matter how small they may seem. Each win is a step closer to becoming an expert coder. Your motivation fuels your journey in the vast ocean of coding.

2. Apply What You Learn

Learning to code isn’t just about understanding syntax and memorizing functions. It’s about putting those concepts into practice. Start by creating your own projects – build a game, animate a story, or even develop a website. By doing this, you not only make learning fun but also understand the practical applications of coding. Remember, the best way to learn is by doing!

3. Turn Mistakes Into Lessons

In coding, errors are not roadblocks; they are stepping stones. Every error message is an opportunity to learn something new. So when you encounter an error, don’t get discouraged. Instead, embrace it, understand it, and learn from it. Remember, growth comes from learning from our mistakes, not avoiding them.

4. Practice!

As the old saying goes, ‘practice makes perfect.’ The more you code, the better you get at it. Set aside time every day to practice coding, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Consistent practice will sharpen your skills, increase your coding speed, and help you master the art of coding. Every bit of effort counts towards your coding mastery.

5. Join Swotters International

At Swotters International, we believe in the power of community. By joining our club, you become part of a network of young coders who are all navigating the same sea of code. Here, you can learn from others, share your knowledge, and improve together. Our members testify to the incredible benefits of being part of a supportive and collaborative coding community.

In conclusion, mastering the art of coding is a journey of motivation, practical application, learning from mistakes, consistent practice, and community support. And remember, at Swotters International, we’re here to help you swim through the sea of code confidently. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our coding tips series!

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1. Blow Bubbles

Breathing is the cornerstone of swimming, and what better way to start than by blowing bubbles? It’s a fun and easy way for children to get comfortable with breathing underwater. Encourage your child to take a deep breath, submerge their face in the water, and slowly release the breath through their mouth, creating a stream of bubbles. This exercise not only helps them control their breathing but also makes them familiar with the sensation of having their face submerged. Practising this skill can significantly boost their confidence and comfort in the water. So, let’s turn breathwork into bubble-making fun!

2. Float on Your Back

Floating on the back is an essential survival skill and the foundation for several swimming strokes. To master this, have your child lie flat in the water with their arms and legs extended outward. Remind them to relax their body and trust the water to support them. The buoyancy of the water will naturally keep them afloat. This technique teaches children about balance, body position, and the feeling of water surrounding their bodies. Mastering the art of back-floating is a significant step towards becoming a confident swimmer.

3. Kick Like a Dolphin

The dolphin kick is a powerful swimming technique that propels swimmers forward with grace and speed. To perform this, your child needs to keep their legs together, bend their knees slightly, and extend their feet backwards in a whip-like motion. It’s essential to keep the arms relaxed by the sides to maintain balance. The dolphin kick not only improves leg strength and flexibility but also introduces children to the rhythm and coordination required in swimming. So, let’s dive in and kick like a dolphin!

4. Swim Like a Fish

Swimming like a fish involves using both arms and legs to glide through the water effortlessly. Encourage your child to stretch their arms forward, kick their legs, and keep their head up to look ahead. This technique helps children understand how to use their entire body to move in the water. It’s also an excellent way to introduce them to different swimming strokes. So, it’s time to dive in and swim like a fish!

5. Have Fun!

Remember, swimming is not just about mastering techniques; it’s about having fun! Encourage your child to relax and enjoy their time in the water. Let them splash around, play games, and explore. Swimming should be a joyful experience that fosters a lifelong love for the sport. The less pressure they feel, the more likely they are to embrace swimming with open arms. So, let’s make a splash and have some fun!

In conclusion, mastering swimming involves controlling your breathing, learning to float, kicking like a dolphin, swimming like a fish, and most importantly, having fun. At Swotters International, we’re here to support your child’s journey into the world of swimming. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our swimming tips series!

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1. Recognize Emotions (Keywords: Recognize, Understanding, Emotions)

The journey to emotional intelligence begins with recognizing emotions. Encourage your child to identify their feelings, whether they’re feeling happy, sad, angry, or scared. By understanding these emotions, children can better express themselves and empathize with others. At Swotters International, we foster an environment where emotions are acknowledged and understood.

2. Express Emotions Appropriately (Keywords: Express, Communication, Appropriate)

Once children can recognize their emotions, the next step is expressing them appropriately. Teach them to communicate their feelings in a respectful and understandable manner. This skill not only promotes healthy relationships but also helps children feel heard and validated.

3. Practice Empathy (Keywords: Empathy, Understanding, Compassionate)

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s a vital component of emotional intelligence. Encourage your child to put themselves in others’ shoes. This practice fosters compassion and helps build strong, supportive relationships. Together, at Swotters International, we’re creating a culture of empathy and understanding.

4. Manage Stress (Keywords: Manage, Stress, Techniques)

Stress management is an essential skill for children. Teach your child simple stress-relieving techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even a quick swim! These practices can help them handle challenging situations with ease and resilience. At Swotters International, we believe in equipping our young members with the tools to navigate life’s ups and downs.

5. Celebrate Success and Learn from Mistakes (Keywords: Celebrate, Success, Learning, Mistakes)

Celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small, and use mistakes as learning opportunities. This approach fosters a growth mindset and helps children understand that it’s okay to make mistakes. Remember, at Swotters International, every achievement is celebrated, and every mistake is a step towards growth.

In conclusion, emotional intelligence involves recognizing emotions, expressing them appropriately, practicing empathy, managing stress, and learning from mistakes.

Remember, at Swotters International, we’re more than a club. We’re a community dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment where kids can grow and thrive. So why wait? Dive into the world of emotional intelligence with us and watch your child transform into a confident, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent individual.

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1. Understand Peer Pressure

Understanding is the first step towards overcoming any challenge. It’s essential for children to recognize what peer pressure is and how it can influence their decisions. At Swotters International, we encourage open conversations about peer pressure and its impacts. By increasing awareness, children can identify when they’re being influenced by their peers and make conscious choices based on their values and interests.

2. Trust Your Instincts

Instincts, often referred to as our ‘gut feeling’, are our inner guide. We teach our young students to trust their instincts when faced with peer pressure. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. This simple yet powerful principle can empower children to stand up for themselves and make decisions that resonate with their personal beliefs.

3. Practice Saying No

Saying ‘no’ can be tough, especially when the pressure comes from friends. But remember, it’s okay to say no. We encourage our young members to practice saying no in a firm yet respectful manner. This skill not only helps them resist peer pressure but also builds their assertiveness and self-esteem.

4. Choose Friends Wisely

Friends play a significant role in a child’s life. They can influence their behaviour, choices, and self-perception. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose friends who have a positive influence. At Swotters International, we foster an environment that encourages positive friendships and mutual respect among members.

5. Seek Support

Last but not least, seeking support is key to overcoming peer pressure. We teach our students that it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s a trusted adult, a mentor, or a counsellor, having someone to talk to can make a world of difference. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there’s always help available at Swotters International.

In conclusion, overcoming peer pressure involves understanding it, trusting your instincts, practising saying no, choosing friends wisely, and seeking support when needed. At Swotters International, we’re committed to helping our young members navigate these challenges confidently. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series on overcoming peer pressure!

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