Experts advocate competitions to develop capacity of students
Chairperson of the Anti-cultism Campaign Committee of the University of Ibadan Centre for Social Orientation (CenSo), Prof. Helen Labeodan, has charged students of Polytechnic High School, Ibadan, to shun cultism and drug abuse, saying the acts hinder individuals from fulfilling their life purposes.
Labeodan, who gave the warning, at the weekend, during a counselling session with the students, urged them not to let cultism derail their destinies.
She also, advised the students to be diligent in their academic pursuits, and as well develop character traits that would help them achieve their goals.
MEANWHILE, Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ota branch, Dr Edith Alagbe, has tasked stakeholders on the need for regular competitions, schemes that can develop the mental capacity of students and prepare them to solve socio-economic challenges.
She made the appeal during the second edition of the yearly Olatunji Akinosi STEM Innovation Challenge among secondary schools organised by NSE, Ota branch, at the weekend.
Alagbe said that a society is strong by the mental capacity of her citizens, hence the need by the branch to build the capacities of young minds and engage them to be conscious that they are truly the leaders of tomorrow as they are major stakeholders with workable solutions for the future.
She said the 16 secondary schools in Ado-Odo/Ota local councils were invited to offer solutions and pathways to the menace of PET bottles in community drainages.
President of the NSE, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, said in today’s rapidly evolving world, STEM education is more important than ever, as it equips students with critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid foundation in the principles that drive technological advancement.
She noted that Nigeria stands on the brink of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterised by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology, adding that it is imperative, therefore, that we prepare our youths to thrive in this dynamic landscape.
Oguntala, who was represented by Chairman of NSE Ikeja branch, Adedotun John, urged the students to see themselves beyond being competitors as pioneers on a journey of discovery and innovation, as well as embrace the opportunity to challenge themselves, collaborate with peers and showcase their talents.
In the competition,Anglican Grammar School, Ota, came first and won a trophy and N100,00 cash prize, Unity High School, Ijoko, emerged in the second position and won a trophy with a N50,000 cash prize while Agbara Community High School, Agbara, came third with a trophy and N30,000 cash prize.
