By Gafar Alabi,

The Chairman of the Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Education Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions to the development of education in Ijebu-Ode and beyond.

The award was presented during the Fountline Stem Quiz Competition, organised by Fountline Kids Foundation in collaboration with the 10th Legislative Council of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area at the Council Secretariat, with the theme, ‘Building a Secured Nation Through Quality Education.’

Receiving the award, Evang. Ifede highlighted the importance of organising quiz competitions among pupils in Public Primary Schools, noting that such initiatives would stimulate learners’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and promote academic excellence.

Represented by the Director of Academic and School Services, Mrs. Kehinde Anifowose, the SUBEB chairman emphasised that the initiative reflected a commitment to equipping children with the knowledge, skills, creativity and confidence required to thrive in a 21st-century global economy, adding that STEM education remained fundamental to innovation and national development.

“STEM education prepares our children to become scientists, engineers and innovators capable of contributing meaningfully to the development of Ogun State and Nigeria,” he said.

Ifede, commended the organisers for the initiative, expressing optimism that the competition would inspire a lifelong passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, among pupils in Public Primary Schools across Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State at large.

In his remarks, Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Olayiwola Salami, called for the enactment of laws that would further enhance the quality of education in Public Primary and Secondary Schools, lauding government for digitilising education in the State.

Similarly, Education Secretary of Ijebu-Ode local government, Mr. Felix Ayankoya, commended the organisers for complementing government’s efforts in providing facilities and promoting education within the Local Government Area of the State.

Earlier, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Adeolu Taiwo, stated that hard work, dedication, innovation and discipline were values that must be encouraged and rewarded, lauding the participating learners from both Primary and Secondary Schools for their courage, curiosity and determination to contribute positively to the society.

In his response, Founder of Fountline Kids Foundation, Amb. Thompson Paul, expressed appreciation to the council and other dignitaries for their support and presence, promising to continue impacting lives through educational initiatives.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of cash prizes and trophies to winners in both Primary and Secondary School categories, as well as awards to individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to the education sector.