MORAL EMPOWERMENT THROUGH LANGUAGE

As Macao has undergone rapid material development over the course of recent decades, the need for educational programmes that equip young people to understand the forces at work in society, assist them to develop their potential, and respond to their desire to make a meaningful contribution to society has grown more and more apparent. The Badi Foundation is engaging in a process of learning about the development of such an initiative–the Moral Empowerment through Language Programme—with like-minded organizations including schools, universities, and the Macao Education and Youth Affairs Bureau, drawing on the capacities of a pool of collaborators including older youth, university students, and educators.

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The Moral Empowerment through Language Programme draws on a curriculum developed by a network of like-minded non-governmental organizations from diverse regions of the world, consisting of stories containing meaningful themes and exercises, quotations, art activities, drama, cooperative games, and service within a participatory environment of encouragement and mutual support. The programme engages junior youth (aged 11-15) in an exploration of reality that helps them to analyse the constructive and destructive forces operating in society and to recognize the influence these forces exert on their thoughts and actions, sharpening their spiritual perception, enhancing their powers of expression, and reinforcing moral structures that will serve them throughout their lives.

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Since it was initiated in 2007, over 4,800 junior youth in Macao have participated in the programme. Participants have arisen to serve their communities in a number of ways, including in the areas of environmental protection, education, and animal welfare. We have seen participants express themselves with growing clarity, place increasing value on practicing moral character in their daily lives, and strengthen bonds of collaboration and friendship within their schools.