A change in national values would influence a change in the society at large, this, Oshundun Kehinde Chris, an author of a recently published book, 'An Orientation Course in National Values, An Urban Innovative Version' stated, in a chat with Doyin Adeoye.NATIONAL values, Chris Kehinde Oshundun, the author of the book entitled 'An Orientation Course in National Values, An Urban Innovative Version', said, was a means to national rebirth. He highlighted different approaches to national transformation in any given country, saying that this could only be obtained through a change in the laid out values of individuals, groups and the society at large.Speaking on why he wrote the book, he said that it was his way of contributing to government's effective leadership. 'It is our own way of contributing to the government. It is a tool for change, as well as a challenge to the government. The major focus of the project is infusing civic, social and ethical values into the national values. I believe that when there are national values, then there will be changes to our approach to certain issues and our ultimate goal is to seek the support of all stakeholders to play their own role,' he added.The idea of the book, which he said he started writing five years ago, was developed from a curriculum which was developed by the Nigeria Education Research and Development Council (NERDC). Explaining that national values had been presented in different versions: textbooks, books, awards, games and so on, his intention was to seek for public and private partnership and sponsorship so that the book could be widespread to serve its purpose. 'Having done our own part, we want people to help promote it. If corruption is to stop, then there should be a change to what people believe in. What you believe in determines what drives you and that will influence your actions,' he said.The book, he said, was 'for everyone; children, youths, parents, teachers and the society at large. It cuts across different cultures and it is applicable to everyone.' While speaking on his concern for diminishing rates of values possessed by many Nigerians, he explained that most of these problems often sprung from home, saying 'many parents for economic reasons do not have enough time for their children. If this book is introduced to schools, it will be an extension of the home, especially with the moral aspect of it, which implies that the school will share in the responsibilities of the parents.' He further stated that it would also be an advantage to the government, explaining that when a child lacked social values, he/she becomes a threat to the society, so in a way, it will help to curb and reduce menace in the Nigerian society.'The state of a nation, to me, is the reflection of their religious values. So, aside the government and schools, even religious groups would benefit from it. It will be a complement to what religious leaders have been doing. If they can impute values into their preaching, then it would help to contribute values into the society. Most of these values, such as contentment, honesty, citizen's rights and duties, right attitude to work, roles of religion, national consciousness and so on, are universal, which means that it is a check to people generally and it is applicable anywhere.'And with the inducement of these values, the societies will be governable and the government can easily implement its policies and there will be peace in the land.
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