SUBEB, UBEC conclude AETP quiz, debate competition in Ogun

The Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has concluded the state finals of the Agricultural Education Training Programme (AETP) quiz and debate competition for primary and junior secondary schools under the 2018/2019 UBE interventions.

The grand finale, held at Imo Methodist Primary School, Oke Yeke, brought together pupils from across the state in a contest aimed at promoting agricultural education at the basic level.

Speaking at the event, SUBEB Chairman, Olalekan Ifede, said the initiative was designed to expose learners early to agriculture, which he described as a critical sector in Nigeria’s economy.

He noted that introducing pupils to areas such as crop production and livestock farming would better equip them with practical knowledge and future career opportunities.

Ifede urged students to take agriculture seriously, stressing the link between proper nutrition and improved academic performance. He also advised parents to ensure their children are well-fed before going to school and encouraged pupils to utilise the rainy season for planting.

Permanent Member III of the board, Abiodun Ajayi, said agriculture should not be treated as a purely theoretical subject, urging teachers and students to apply practical skills on farms.

In his goodwill message, Chairman of the Association of Primary School Headteachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON) in the state, Tajudeen Adeosun, represented by Taiwo Sodipo, commended SUBEB for its efforts in improving basic education.

Earlier, Director of Administration and Supplies, Femi Fatade, said the competition provided a platform for pupils to showcase their academic abilities and encouraged participants to maintain sportsmanship.

At the end of the competition, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola Primary School emerged winner in the 2018 primary school debate category, followed by Community Primary School, Ogasa, and Obafemi Awolowo Primary School.

In the 2018 primary school quiz category, Moslem Primary School, Isoku, took first position, while Community Primary School, Kajola, and Obafemi Awolowo Primary School came second and third respectively.

For the 2019 primary school quiz, Local Government Primary School, Obalende, emerged winner, followed by St Augustine Primary School, Adatan, and Methodist Primary School, Ado-Odo Ota.

In the 2019 junior secondary school quiz category, Salawu Abiola Comprehensive School came first, with Molusi College in second place and Makun High School finishing third.