Kakalistiq.com reports that in a significant celebration of academic prowess, education stakeholders across Ijebu Land have praised the Young Elites Society for their dedication to revitalizing academic excellence through innovative competitions. The 2024 Academic Festival, held on Saturday, May 18th, at the prestigious Saint Anthony Secondary School (Private), Esure, Ijebu-Mushin, showcased this commitment.
Founded in 2005, the Young Elites Society of Ijebuland has consistently aimed to uplift the socio-economic welfare of their community and promote quality education. The Chairperson of the occasion, Mrs. Omolara Sansa, Principal of Molipa High School Junior, Ijebu-Ode, applauded the society and extended heartfelt congratulations to all participants, wishing them success in their future endeavours.
Mrs. Olubunmi Akindunjoye, the Representative of the Zonal Education Officer of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (Ijebu East), who inaugurated the event, expressed profound gratitude towards the society and attendees. “Your contributions, prayers, presence, and support have been pivotal in ensuring the success of this program,” she acknowledged.
Similarly, the Zonal Secretary of the Teaching Service Commission, Ijebu East, congratulated the participants, urging them to seize the opportunity to learn new things. He also appreciated the Young Elites Society for reviving the academic spirit they had once experienced.
Encouraging the learners, the President of the Society, Mr. Dayo Adekoya, emphasized the importance of education. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it. Be good ambassadors, make your parents proud, and always strive for excellence,” he advised.
Adekoya reiterated the society’s commitment to contributing positively to the community’s well-being. “Our impact has been moderately felt in education, health, and public welfare. We have made donations to schools and healthcare facilities, conducted community service, and raised awareness on disease prevention,” he disclosed.
He added that in 2023, the society facilitated the payment of WAEC fees for nine students at Owu/Ikija Community Grammar School. This year, they extended this support to fifty learners in the same school. “The 2024 Festival of Academic Competitions was motivated by our drive to inspire the younger generation and maintain a positive outlook on life,” Adekoya added.
“Children are our future, and to brighten it, we need to cultivate their hidden talents. Appreciating students who excel in academics and other qualities like leadership and teamwork is crucial,” he concluded.
The Academic Festival, organized among public and private senior secondary school learners in Ijebu East Local Government, saw six schools reach the grand finale. These schools included St. Anthony’s Grammar School (public and private), Esure, Ijebu Imusin; Itele High School, Itele; St. Brendan’s Secondary School, Ogbere; Dayon College, Ijebu Ife; and Ijebu Anglican Diocesan College, Igan Ipabi.
Emerging as the top three schools were St. Anthony’s Grammar School (private), Esure; St. Anthony’s Grammar School (public), Esure; and Itele High School, Itele. These schools received awards and cash prizes from the Young Elites Society. Additionally, the best students in debate, quiz, spelling bee, and project exhibition were also honoured.
Dignitaries in attendance included Mrs. Omolara Sansa, Mrs. Olubunmi Akindunjoye, the Zonal Secretary of TESCOM Ijebu East, Dr Wahab, the HOD of Yoruba Language, Tai Solarin University of Education; the ANCOPSS Chairman of the Ijebu East Chapter, and several other notable figures from the education and political spheres.
The festival concluded with a sense of renewed hope and commitment to academic excellence, leaving a lasting impact on all participants and attendees.
