Revive School Competitions, NGO Urges Govt, Stakeholders

A non-governmental organisation, has called on government and private organisations to revive school competitions as part of efforts to promote the sector.

National coordinator of the group, Fred Iwuoha, who made the appeal in Lagos, said investment in education and promotion of competitions among students would resolve and fix the numerous challenges facing the nation.

The group, organiser of “National Spell It Battle of Champions” has been promoting literacy and learning through competitions, support to children education activities and excursion among others.

Iwuoha urged government at all levels, Nigerians and corporate organisations to invest in the promotion of educational activities to build sustainable future for the country.

He said: “If we have competitions that are genuine, which children are eager to participate in, get exposure and win prizes, I believe it will help the education sector and fix a lot of things for us.

“This will also reduce the number of out-of-school children and other social vices, such as cultism, prostitution and other societal challenges. Government is trying its best but can do more. We need to invest more in education to change the mindset of the younger generation. There is need to imbue them with values that would transform the country,” Iwuoha added.

The National coordinator disclosed that the group’s yearly competition, which started in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States, had covered 32 states, with its 2nd National Spell It Battle of Champions held at the National Stadium, Abuja on September 10.

Winners were rewarded with huge sums of money to enhance their studies; so far, about N100m had gone into the project with support from various companies. Iwuoha disclosed.

Iwuoha explained that the organisation was established to redirect the minds of the younger generation from violence and crime through school activities.

He urged more public-spirited Nigerians to support the group in its efforts at promoting learning.