WITH a total of 70 points, Don Bosco College, Ukhun, Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of Edo state during the weekend in Benin emerged winner of the 12th Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) annual secondary schools quiz competition.In the keenly contested competition held at LAPO Institute, Presentation Secondary School, Benin was second best with 65 points in the competition which involved English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics while DSC Technical College Warri, came third with 45 points.
For the shining performance, Don Bosco, a private school based in the university town was presented with a trophy and complete set of science laboratory equipment among other gifts.
The founder and chief executive of the microfinance bank, Dr Godwin Ehigiamusoe remarked that more than 300 secondary schools drawn from Edo and Delta states participated in the 2018 competition.
Represented by Mrs Sabina Idowu-Osehobo, Executive Director, LAPO, Ehigiamusoe, said that the competition was initiated in 2006 to promote intellectual development among secondary school students as well as inculcate in them discipline and a sense of competitive spirit.
He explained that the main focus of the competition was on science subjects, which forms the basis of science and technology crucial in developing economy like Nigeria.
He added that the organisation’s involvement in educational development was prompted by the need to address the myriads of problems facing the sector.
He listed poor funding, the dearth of teachers, poor and polluted learning environment as well as social vices such as examination malpractices, cultism, hooliganism and corruption as some of the problems plaguing the nation’s educational sector.
The LAPO boss remarked that over the years private and cover schools have participated in the competition and won several prizes ranging from computer sets, laboratory equipment, first aid kits, school furniture as well as writing materials.
A happy winner, Master Joe Alika from Don Bosco said that winning was a dream come true, adding that the secret of his was hard work.
Joe, son of medical doctor parents dedicated the award to his parents, teachers and fellow students, adding that emerging winner is a call for harder work.
