For decades, the measure of a "good student" in Cameroon has been simple: high marks in Math, high marks in Science, and a report card full of As. But as we look around our communities today, we have to ask a difficult question: Is academic intelligence enough?
At Eva Helpful Foundation, we believe the answer is no. To build a peaceful society and successful future leaders, we must integrate Emotional Intelligence (EQ) into our classrooms alongside traditional subjects. This approach is globally known as Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
What is Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)?
SEL is not a new subject like History or Geography. It is the process of learning how to manage feelings, show empathy for others, and make responsible decisions.
Imagine a classroom where a student who fails a test does not tear up their paper in anger but asks, "How can I improve?" Imagine a playground where a disagreement does not turn into a fight but into a conversation. That is the power of SEL.
Why Cameroon needs this now
Our schools are facing a crisis. We see rising cases of:
- School violence: Arguments escalating into dangerous physical altercations.
- Student depression: The immense pressure to perform academically is harming mental health.
- Lack of empathy: Students are often competing against each other rather than supporting one another.
By teaching values like empathy and tolerance, we treat the root cause of these problems, not just the symptoms.
The 3 key benefits of EQ in schools
Research shows that students with high emotional intelligence do not just behave better they actually perform better in life.
1. Better academic results
A calm mind learns faster. When students know how to handle stress and anxiety, they can focus better on their lessons.
See how our partner schools are seeing these results.
2. Future career success
Employers today are not just looking for degrees. They are looking for people who can work in teams, listen to colleagues, and lead with respect. SEL prepares youth for the modern workplace.
3. Safer communities
Children who learn to resolve conflicts peacefully at school grow up to be adults who build peaceful neighborhoods. This is the heart of our mission at Eva Helpful.
How Eva Helpful is leading the way
We are not waiting for the curriculum to change—we are bringing the change to the schools. Through our outreach programs in Soa and Yaounde, we provide:
- Workshops on self-awareness
- Conflict resolution games
- Mentorship for at-risk students
We are planting the seeds for a generation that is not just smart, but also kind and resilient.
Partner with us
Are you a school administrator or a concerned parent? Let us work together to bring Emotional Intelligence to your classrooms.