By Akeem Salami

|

Secondary school students in Ondo State have been advised to uphold determination and commitment to learning to achieve academic success.

The Principal of Eji Oba High School, Ondo State, Mrs Cecelia Olokunlade gave this charge during the presentation of a cash award of N250,000 to a student of the school, Miss Taye Adejaiye, who emerged as the second runner-up in the David Akinyemi School of Thought and Philosophical Engagement debate competition.

The competition, tagged ‘2024 Annual Festival of Ideas’, had participants from various schools across Ondo State.

Mrs. Olokunlade encouraged the students to focus on their studies, stressing that quality education and hard work pay off.

“You must be ready to learn as students. I will advise you to learn from the success of others as an example to build academic excellence. Set standards and discipline for yourself. Your determination and commitment are required to make you succeed. Education is the best legacy,” she said.

The principal applauded the teaching staff of the school for their commitment to ensuring the students excel.

Teachers of the school attested to the quality of knowledge being imparted to the students, saying Adejaiye’s success was a testament to the quality of teaching in the school.

Speaking with The Hope, Adejaiye expressed gladness, stressing that the award would encourage her to keep studying harder.

“It means a lot to me to receive the award. The award will serve as an encouragement to me to keep studying. However, I encountered some challenges which included anxiety and fear of facing the crowd. I thank God I overcame them,” Adejaiye said.

She, however, inspired her colleagues to embrace challenges, emphasizing that challenges are part of the existing natural rules, part of which move individuals to another stage of life.