Level 10: Sustainable and Transformational Mentoring Relationships
(10a) Higher-Order Thinking Question (HOTQ) Why is transformative mentorship considered essential for turning potential into leadership in Nigerian academic and professional contexts? Answer: Transformative mentorship empowers mentees to develop confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills, helping them navigate challenges and emerge as leaders; potential alone is insufficient without guided growth and trust-based relationships.
(10b) Analytical Reasoning Question How do mentors balance guidance with mentee independence to maximize growth? Answer: By gradually shifting responsibility, promoting decision-making, and fostering reflective learning, mentors guide without controlling, enabling mentees to act autonomously while remaining supported.
(10c) Conceptual Mastery Question Distinguish between structural, relational, and goal-oriented sustainability in mentoring. Answer: Structural sustainability: Clear schedules, roles, and routines. Relational sustainability: Trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Goal-oriented sustainability: Alignment of short- and long-term objectives.
(10d) Diagnostic Reasoning Question If a mentee disengages despite frequent mentor interactions, what might be the underlying issue? Answer: The mentoring relationship may lack trust, mutual respect, clear goals, or growth-oriented focus, undermining engagement and motivation.
(10e) Cognitive-Challenge Question Predict the long-term impact of growth-oriented mentorship on mentees and their communities. Answer: It fosters self-efficacy, resilience, leadership skills, and autonomous problem-solving, enabling mentees to mentor others, drive innovation, and create sustainable societal impact.