By Charles Igwe
In a resounding display of academic prowess, students from the Archdiocesan Schools of Onitsha have emerged as shining stars at the prestigious President’s School Debate, Nigeria. Their outstanding performances have not only garnered praise but also brought three prestigious awards to Anambra State.
Amidst fierce competition, Anambra State stood tall, securing accolades in various categories. Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, the State Commissioner for Education, was honored with the esteemed “Best Performing Commissioner for Education in South-eastern Nigeria” award, a testament to her exceptional leadership in advancing education in the state.
Furthermore, the remarkable achievement of Mrs. Amaka Anekwe, Principal of Capital City Secondary School, Awka, was recognized as she received the “Best Performing Desk Officer Fully Committed to the Development of School Debate Program in Nigeria” award. Her dedication to nurturing talent and promoting the art of debating has not gone unnoticed.
However, the crowning glory came with the victory of the Solution Debate Team from Anambra State, securing the Second Prize at the highly competitive President’s Schools Debate Championship. This outstanding team comprised students from prominent Onitsha archdiocesan schools: Okey-Okonkwo John from All Hallows Seminary Onitsha, Okafor Obioma, and Mmadugafor Chiamaka of Mater Amabilis Secondary School Umuoji, Anikwuolum Adaeze of Queen of the Rosary College Onitsha, and Nwamgbada Annabel of Capital City Secondary School Awka.
The closing ceremonies of the 2023 Democracy Day President’s Inter Senior Secondary Schools Debate Championship, held at the Federal Ministry of Education Headquarters in Abuja, were filled with jubilation and pride for Anambra State. The exceptional performance of the Solution Debate Team earned them a spot representing Nigeria in an international debate competition scheduled for 2024 in Dubai, UAE, an accomplishment that further amplifies Anambra’s reputation on a global stage.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha takes immense pride in the role it played in nurturing these young talents. The culture of academic excellence fostered within the archdiocesan schools has once again proved to be a driving force behind their remarkable achievements.
As Onitsha archdiocese continues to shine as a beacon of educational excellence, it sets an inspiring example for other educational institutions. The remarkable success at the President’s Schools Debate Championship serves as a testament to the dedication of teachers, the commitment of students, and the unwavering support from the archdiocese.
The laurels brought home by Anambra State are not only a source of pride but also a reminder of the potential and promise that thrives in this vibrant educational hub. The Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha stands tall, nurturing academic brilliance and preparing future leaders to make a positive impact on society.
With boundless pride and gratitude, Anambra State celebrates these exceptional achievements, knowing that its young talents will continue to soar and make the state proud on every platform they step onto.
