By Emmanuel Enebeli
ASABA/Nigeria: In a spectacular display of academic prowess and dedication, Don Bosco Science Academy in Ekpoma, Edo State, has emerged as the champion of the 12th edition of the SEPLAT JV PEARLS Quiz Competition, securing a remarkable cash award of N10 million.
This prestigious competition, organized by Seplat Petroleum Development Company as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, “Preparing Exceptional and Responsible Leaders (PEARLs),” bore witness to a remarkable showcase of exceptional talent and academic excellence from schools in Edo and Delta states.
This year’s edition of the competition took on a unique format, commencing with an online stage that saw a staggering 510 schools participating. As the competition progressed, only 139 schools managed to secure a coveted spot in the physical showdown.
The grand finale unfolded on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Southend Event Center in Asaba, Delta State, and was graced by distinguished personalities, including Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Secretary to the Delta State Government, representing Governor Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.
Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs and Sustainability at Seplat, highlighted the company’s unwavering commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen, emphasizing their focus on healthcare, education, capacity building, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development within their host communities in Edo and Delta States.
She stated that the SEPLAT JV PEARLS program, standing for “Promoting Exceptional and Respectable Leaders,” has left an indelible mark, significantly impacting over 57,000 students in both states over the past 11 years.
Dr. Kingsley Emu, representing the Governor, encouraged students from Delta State to excel in the competition and emphasized the government’s dedication to providing quality education at various levels.
The Managing Director of Seplat West, Ayodele Olatunde, expressed gratitude to the governments of Edo and Delta State, underscoring the paramount importance of nurturing academic excellence and values among secondary schools. He illuminated the program’s achievements in promoting healthy competition, teamwork, focus, and resilience among students.
Also speaking, Mrs. Rose Ezenwu, the Delta State Commissioner for Secondary and Basic Education, stressed the transformative power of education and the government’s unswerving commitment to providing quality education for the youth. She acknowledged the ongoing efforts to improve facilities, equipment, and the overall quality of education, while urging corporate entities to persist in their support for educational initiatives.
The SEPLAT JV PEARLS Quiz Competition stands as a testament to the extraordinary talents of young minds in the region. It not only rewards academic excellence but also instills values, principles, and a sense of purpose in students, fostering competition, teamwork, focus, and resilience.
The 12th edition of this competition has undoubtedly etched its mark as a landmark event, promoting academic excellence and nurturing the potential of students in Edo and Delta States. The victory of Don Bosco Science Academy serves as an inspiring testament to the dedication, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence displayed by all participating schools.
