Bramble Network
On February 27, 2025, Bramble Network launched the pilot phase of its 12-week cohort-based training initiative, The School Leadership Program. This transformative program, designed for low-cost school leaders, began with an engaging onsite session in Oyo State. The event brought together passionate school leaders and administrators for an orientation and the first two modules: Transformational Leadership and Rethinking Education in the 21st Century. The program aims to equip school leaders with the knowledge and strategies to foster a forward-thinking educational environment, ultimately enhancing learner outcomes.
A Powerful Start
The session commenced with an orientation led by Bolade Ajimisogbe, the program manager. She introduced the training objectives and Bramble Network’s mission. She then welcomed the facilitator, Ms. Odunayo Aliu, to deliver the first session on Transformational Leadership.
Transformational Leadership
Ms. Odunayo provided deep insights into transformational leadership, emphasizing its role in shaping the education sector. She referenced inspiring leaders such as Babs Fafunwa, Nelson Mandela, and Dora Nyambe, highlighting their impactful contributions. Participants explored key characteristics of a transformational leader, including humility, proactiveness, and self-awareness.
To facilitate self-reflection, Ms. Odunayo guided participants through a S.W.O.T. analysis exercise, where they identified their Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. This engaging activity allowed school leaders to enhance their self-awareness and strategic thinking, making it an insightful experience for all attendees.
Rethinking Education in the 21st Century
The second session focused on emerging trends in education, covering topics such as Social-Emotional Learning, Global Citizenship Education, and Technology Integration. Participants were divided into groups to work on a case study for an imaginary school, Greenwood Academy, where they designed an innovative education structure adaptable to low-cost schools. This exercise encouraged critical thinking and collaboration while reinforcing the importance of flexible, modern educational approaches.
The discussion also underscored the necessity of rethinking education to align with the evolving demands of the 21st century. Topics included innovative teaching methods, technology-driven learning, and critical skill development in creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. The session reinforced the importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing world and ensuring they acquire competencies for future success.
Building Collaborative Leadership
A key highlight of the training was the emphasis on diverse and collaborative leadership. Attendees explored strategies for building cohesive leadership teams and fostering collaboration within their schools. By sharing their unique perspectives and experiences, school leaders strengthened their professional networks and deepened their understanding of effective school leadership.
Looking Ahead
As the onsite training concluded, participants reflected on their key takeaways and discussed how they planned to implement their learnings in their respective schools. The excitement was palpable as school leaders expressed their eagerness for the remaining sessions, which will be conducted virtually over the next 12 weeks.
This extended virtual phase will provide participants with an opportunity to further explore the concepts introduced, apply new strategies in real-time, and receive ongoing support and mentorship. The enthusiasm and collaborative spirit fostered during the onsite session will undoubtedly drive positive change in participating schools.
Through transformational leadership and innovative thinking, we are paving the way for a great future in education. We look forward to witnessing the impact of this program as school leaders embrace new ideas and implement meaningful changes in their institutions.
For more updates on Bramble Network’s initiatives, visit www.bramblenetwork.org or follow us on social media @bramblenetwork.
