Three students from Isador Model School have emerged as the top winners of the African Child’s Education & Development Network (ACEDEN) Purposeful Art Competition (PAC) 2024.
Mariam Raheem, a JSS 3 student, took home the first prize of ₦100,000; Great Nwaneri, an SS 1 student, secured the second position with ₦70,000, and Munachi Ogbonna, a JSS 2 student, claimed the third spot with ₦50,000.
The students’ prizes were awarded at their school to honour the winners of the competition.
ACEDEN Founder and Team Lead, Mr Gbenga Oyewole, stated that the competition was to explore the artistic ability of students across the nation and awaken a passion that might be hidden in them.
Expressing her excitement, Mariam Raheem said she was overwhelmed with happiness. This is because she has participated in some competitions in the past and was never recognised, but this win has motivated her to continue developing her talent.
She added that she has plans to pursue a career in art, potentially opening her own art gallery, and hopes to study art at the tertiary level.
The second-place winner, Great Nwaneri, credited his brother’s artistic skills as his inspiration.
Despite being a science student, Nwaneri enjoys music and poetry and plans to improve his skills in these areas. He advised others to “work on something and get anything” if they wanted to achieve success.
Munachi Ogbonna, who secured third place, acknowledged her sister’s encouragement to participate in the competition. Although she loves singing, Ogbonna may not pursue a career in art but appreciates the opportunities provided through the competition.
The Principal of Isador Model School, Mr. Dayo Moyo, praised ACEDEN’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Moyo emphasised the importance of equipping students with skills beyond academics, highlighting his school’s focus on self-development and talent cultivation.
The wins have motivated Isador Model School to invest more in its students’ talents, including providing digital gadgets and equipment to enhance their skills.
Moyo stressed that education should combine human development and academic learning, urging government support for this integrated approach.
ACEDEN’s Purposeful Art Competition has not only showcased the artistic prowess of Nigerian secondary school students but also inspired a new generation of creative leaders to envision a brighter future for their country.
