Lagos school wins N100,000 prize in debate contest

Lagos State Model Nursery and Primary School, situated in Ikeja GRA, emerged victorious in a debate contest organized by Lions International, District 404B5, to celebrate World Literacy Day. The primary school pupils from five diverse institutions participated in the debate, addressing the detrimental impacts of social media on children and young individuals.

The contest took place at Bola Memorial Primary School, also located in Ikeja, as part of the reading action programme spearheaded by Lions to bolster literacy and enhance children's learning and communication abilities. Other participating schools were recognized for their efforts with prizes.

During the event, District Governor Phina Origho elaborated on the objectives of the reading action programme, emphasizing Lions' commitment to literacy and children's development. She stated, "Lions Club International is very concerned about literacy and helping children develop their learning abilities. So, we organised primary school pupils for a reading action programme, and today, we had them debate the ills of social media."

Origho highlighted the importance of guiding children early in the age of widespread social media influence. She expressed satisfaction with the pupils' performances and underscored the need for early guidance amidst the growing social media presence.

Olapeju Hassan, the chairperson of the committee planning the programmes in Ekiti and Lagos, revealed that 21 Lions clubs collaborated on this initiative across the two states. In Ekiti, 10 clubs participated, distributing essential back-to-school items such as notebooks, school bags, water bottles, and shoes to pupils. These basic supplies, intended to ease parental burdens and provide a solid start for the academic term, were aimed at supporting children's educational journeys.

Hassan explained that while spelling bees typically marked World Literacy Day, the committee opted for debates this year to foster communication and public-speaking skills among the pupils. She noted, "Usually, for World Literacy Day, we organise spelling bee competitions. But this time around, I decided to do something different because, within the national programme, I am passionate about promoting good speaking, communication, and the ability of children to express themselves. Debates help children develop their communication skills and express themselves confidently."