By Gafar Alabi,

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.

Speaking at the grand finale at Imo Methodist Primary School, Oke Yeke, Chairman of SUBEB, Evang. Olalekan Ifede, said the initiative was designed to expose pupils early to Agriculture, described as a key driver of Nigeria’s economy. He noted that introducing learners to agricultural enterprises such as livestock and crop production would better prepare them for future career opportunities.

Ifede urged students to take Agriculture seriously, linking proper nutrition to improved academic performance, while encouraging parents to ensure their children were adequately fed before school. He also advised learners to utilise the rainy season for planting and to apply the practical knowledge gained from the programme in their respective schools.

Also speaking, Permanent Member III of the Board, Hon. Abiodun Ajayi, stressed that Agriculture goes beyond theoretical discussions, urging both teachers and learners to demonstrate practical skills on the farm.

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

Earlier, Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Femi Fatade, said the competition provided a platform for learners to showcase their talents and encouraged participants to uphold sportsmanship and fairness.

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 came first, with Community Primary School Kajola in second place and Obafemi Awolowo Primary School in third position.

For the 2019 primary school quiz, Local Government Primary School Obalende came first position, followed by St Augustine Primary School Adatan, while Methodist Primary School Ado Odo Ota took the  third position.

In the 2019 Junior Secondary School quiz category, Salawu Abiola Comprehensive School emerged overall winner, Molusi College came second and Makun High School came third.