By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The maiden edition of Panegyric Competition among Nigerian Secondary school’s students was held on Thursday by the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja.
Speaking during the event, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the art of panegyric competition promotes cultural values and fosters national unity, peace, creativity, eloquence, and a healthy competition among students across Nigeria.
Dr. Alausa, represented by Dr. Ismaila O. Adiatu, his Senior Special Assistant , said in the 21st century, innovation and progress are driven by the pillars of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
According to him, STEAM is the heartbeat of morden education, equipping the youths with the skills to tackle global challenges, from climate change to health crisis.
He said integrating Arts into STEAM will foster creativity, turning discoveries into transformative innovations.
“However, the Arts in (STEAM) has not been given much attention, hence the need to organise the Panegyric competition as a way of exposing youths to the beauty of Arts,
“I urge you all to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. Also remember the fusion of knowledge and creativity reflects the power to change the world” he said.
He appreciated the organisers of the event and the secondary school’s participants for their enthusiasm and talent as a testament to creating a brighter future for Nigeria.
Speaking earlier, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, added that the competition celebrates eloquence and the art of rhetoric, “but also to promote a culture of scientifc inquiry and technological advancement with a share vision of Innovation, critical thinking, and inspired expression among the youth”.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo stated that “education is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society. And event event like this serves as a testament to the importance of fostering a historic approach to learning.
“We often emphasized the significance of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Education. It is equally imperative to recognise and appreciate the role of arts and creativity in sharping our cultural landscape and driving societal change”.
Three schools competed at the event. Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, Rivers State clinched the first position, while St. Monica’s Girl’s Grammar School and Federal Government Secondary School (GSS) Gombe emerged 2nd and 3rd respectively.
A consolation prize of N50,000 each was given to other participants.
