Education

Lagoon School Lekki emerges 2024 best in public speaking, wins trophy

ELOQUENCE CUP 2024 L-R: Registrar, School of Eloquence, Mrs Patience Essien; A representative of Lagoon School Lekki, Ms Ugochi Onuchukwu; Chairman, School of Eloquence, Mr Bayo Osibo; the students of the winning school, Nzeadibe Monalisa and Opeoluwa Adeosan, and the Dean, School of Eloquence, Mr. Ubong Essien CSP, in Lagos recently

…As students, teachers, receive cash awards on individual categories

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The 2024 public speaking competition for secondary schools, otherwise, ‘2024 Eloquence Cup’ has ended with Lagoon School Lekki, emerging champion.

The event hosted by the School of Eloquence to place at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.

The event was the 6th annual edition which showcased remarkable young talent from nine top secondary schools in Lagos State, all competing under the theme, “The Role of Technology and Social Media in Nigeria’s Educational System.”

This flagship eventbis indeed part of the School of Eloquence’s Catching Them Young initiative, is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme spearheaded by Mr. Ubong Essien, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional (CSP). Through this initiative, the School of Eloquence teaches secondary school students the foundational principles of effective public speaking, nurturing future leaders with communication skills that transform lives and empower communities. Each school was represented by two students, who impressed judges with their eloquence, creativity, and mastery of the theme.

Distinguished attendees included Mr. Bayo Osibo, Chairman of the School of Eloquence’s governing board, and Mrs. Patience Essien, Registrar of the School. The event also welcomed alums and professionals from various fields, adding to the spirit of mentorship and community that the Eloquence Cup embodies.

Participating schools such as Kings College Lagos, Queens College Yaba, CMS Grammar School, Lagoon School, Government Senior College Maroko, Dairy Farm Senior School, Ilasan Senior Secondary School Lekki, Gbara Community Senior Secondary School, Lekki, and Government Senior College Ikoyi competed in several rounds, showcasing exceptional talent and passion. Lagoon School, Lekki, emerged as the overall winner, with Kings College and Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege securing a joint second place.

In the individual category, Ezennaya Derek of Kings College took the first prize of ₦150,000, Opeoluwa Adeosan of Lagoon College Lekki earned ₦100,000 for second place, and Jasmine Chris of Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege won third place with ₦75,000. Teachers were also honored for their critical roles in preparing these young talents, each receiving cash reward in recognition of their dedication.

The Dean of the School, Mr. Ubong Essien, CSP, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “The Eloquence Cup is more than a competition; it’s a movement to empower the leaders of tomorrow. Public speaking is a transformative skill, and through this platform, we are preparing young Nigerians to inspire and lead with confidence.”

The School of Eloquence extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, parents, and supporters for making this event a resounding success. With plans to expand mentorship and inspire more young voices, the School looks forward to next year’s Eloquence Cup with great anticipation.