The Moses Adekoyejo Majekodunmi Foundation (MAMF) has issued a clarion call to individuals and corporate entities, urging them to bolster governmental efforts in nurturing the primary education sector within the country. This appeal resonates with the fundamental belief that early childhood education forms the bedrock of future success, a period when young minds are most receptive to learning and cultivating a strong educational foundation. The foundation emphasizes the importance of investing in these formative years to unlock the immense potential within children and pave the way for a brighter future for individuals and society as a whole.
This call to action was made during the culminating event of the third MAMF Creative Challenge, an initiative strategically designed to ignite innovation through education and creativity. Held at the Ijaola Majekodunmi Memorial Building in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the competition brought together over 300 public primary schools across the state, showcasing the abundance of talent and the thirst for knowledge among young learners. The event served as a testament to the power of education to inspire creativity, foster critical thinking, and build self-confidence in children, equipping them with essential skills for future success.
The competition itself, themed “Inspiring Innovation Through Education and Creativity,” saw an impressive participation rate with over 300 public primary schools submitting entries. This enthusiastic response underscores the importance placed on education by schools and students alike. From the initial pool of entries, 30 schools advanced to the first stage, and ultimately, 15 finalists battled it out in the grand finale. This rigorous selection process ensured that the most deserving and talented students were recognized and celebrated. The competition not only identified and rewarded exceptional talent but also provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity and critical thinking skills, further solidifying the foundation’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in education.
Emerging victorious from this challenging competition was Oguntade Hassan of Odeda Local Government Primary School, who claimed the coveted title of overall best and a substantial cash prize of N250,000. Toriola Fridaus of Methodist Primary School, Ago Oko, Abeokuta, secured the second position, receiving N150,000, while Farombi John of Muslim Model Nursery and Primary School, Ago Oko, Abeokuta, rounded out the top three with a N100,000 prize. These awards not only recognize the students’ individual achievements but also serve as a powerful motivator for continued academic pursuit and creative exploration. The substantial cash prizes can be instrumental in supporting the winners’ education and fostering their future development.
Richard Uwayzor, the Executive Secretary of MAMF, highlighted the significance of the competition, emphasizing its role in providing a platform for children, particularly those in public schools, to express their inherent creativity. He stressed the need to double down on investments in primary education, as these formative years are crucial in shaping a child’s future trajectory and preventing societal ills. He pointed out that there exists a wealth of untapped talent within public schools, and platforms like the MAMF Creative Challenge are essential for uncovering and nurturing this potential. By recognizing and rewarding these talents, the competition provides a vital springboard for these students to pursue higher education and contribute meaningfully to society.
Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, echoed these sentiments, commending MAMF for its collaborative efforts with the government in laying a solid foundation for children’s future success. He acknowledged the competition’s role in honing crucial skills such as storytelling, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving, skills that are increasingly valuable in the 21st century. The Commissioner emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing policies and initiatives that promote качественным education, ensuring that children are well-equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world. He also encouraged all participants to continue cultivating their dreams, creativity, and innovative spirit, emphasizing their potential to become future leaders and change-makers.
