The spirit of intellectual engagement, academic excellence and educational advancement came alive in Umuahia as Vision Africa Radio 104.1FM, in collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, held the 2025/2026 School Debate Prize Presentation Day, marking the 14th physical edition and 15th year of the highly celebrated academic competition.
The event, which attracted students, education stakeholders, government representatives, teachers and dignitaries from across the state, showcased the brilliance and critical thinking abilities of students who debated on the thought-provoking topic: “Is the grading system an accurate measure of a student’s intelligence?”
The competition, known for promoting healthy intellectual discourse among secondary school students, once again demonstrated the importance of education in shaping future leaders.
At the end of the keenly contested debate, Gradiel International School, Umuahia, emerged as the overall winner with an impressive 409 points, defeating other competing schools to clinch the prestigious first position.
University Demonstration School, Ihie Ndume, Umuahia, came second with 398 points, while Victorious Covenant High School, Aba, secured the third position after a commendable performance.
The atmosphere at the prize presentation ceremony was filled with excitement as students, teachers and supporters celebrated the achievements of the winning schools, reflecting the growing culture of academic competitiveness in Abia State.
Representing the wife of the Abia State Governor, Lady Priscilla Otti, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Chidera Emetu, graced the occasion and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting educational excellence and youth development.
Mrs. Priscilla Otti commended the President of Vision Africa Radio, Archbishop Sunday Onuoha, for sustaining the annual competition over the years, describing the initiative as a significant contribution to nurturing a generation of informed, responsible and academically driven young people.
According to her, education goes beyond examinations, grades and certificates, stressing that true learning should inspire curiosity, nurture creativity, build character and prepare young people to become responsible leaders and problem-solvers in society.
She further applauded the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education for its fruitful partnership with Vision Africa Radio, noting that the collaboration demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when government institutions and private organizations work together toward the advancement of education.
Representing the chairman of the event and former Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika, retired WAEC staff, Sir Kester Ekekwe, commended teachers for their dedication and sacrifice in nurturing students towards excellence.
Sir Ekekwe also applauded the panel of judges for what he described as their promptness, fairness and professionalism in delivering judgment throughout the competition.
He further appreciated Governor Dr. Alex Otti for the infrastructural transformation ongoing in Abia State, noting that improvements in public facilities contribute significantly to creating an enabling environment for quality education.
In an emotionally charged address, renowned cleric and peace advocate, Archbishop Dr. Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, expressed concern over the worsening insecurity affecting schools in parts of the country.
According to him, incidents of school abductions were minimal during the tenure of former Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika, stressing that children deserve to learn in safe and secure environments.
Archbishop Onuoha passionately appealed to law enforcement agencies and political leaders to intensify efforts toward protecting schools and safeguarding the future of Nigerian children.
He lamented that insecurity has continued to rob many children of their fundamental right to education, insisting that every part of the country must be made safe for learning.
“Those in authority should ensure that students are protected and free to pursue their education without fear. Safety should never be denied to our children. Every part of this nation must become safe for learning,” he stressed.
The debate competition, stakeholders observed, has continued to serve as a veritable platform for discovering young talents, sharpening communication skills and promoting critical thinking among students in Abia State.
Many participants and guests described the event as a celebration of knowledge, discipline and the collective resolve to build a brighter future through education.
