Get ready for some mind-blowing science action! The Edo State government, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, is supercharging the academic scene with the 774 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award (YONSPA) competition. This isn’t your average school quiz; it’s a high-stakes showdown where the best and brightest minds clash, all for the love of science and a chance at a brighter future.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- What: The 774 YONSPA competition, a nationwide science challenge.
- Where: Taking place across Edo State, focusing on all Local Government Areas.
- Who: For all science students in public and private secondary schools.
- Why: To boost academic performance and reward excellence in science.
- The Prize: Scholarships up to PhD level and cash prizes!
Edo State’s Big Bet on Science
Engr. Jonathan Ukpebor, the big brain behind the Ministry of Science and Technology, is pumped about this initiative. He said that the competition isn’t just another exam; it’s a platform designed to light a fire under science students in Edo State. He highlighted that it’s a joint effort with the Edo State Ministry of Education to push students towards achieving better academic results in their schools.
How the Competition Works
The competition is a big deal, reaching across all three senatorial districts in Edo State. It aims to include every Local Government Area in the competition. All the action leads to the national finals in Abuja, where the top three states get scholarship awards and cash prizes. The winning state walks away with a cool N1,000,000, second place snags N750,000, and third place pockets N500,000. That’s a whole lot of dough for science wizards!
National Stage
But here is the real deal: Winners don’t just get bragging rights in Edo State. The overall winner will go on to represent the state in the National Finals in Abuja. The best brains of the best state will compete for a scholarship that could take them all the way up to a Ph.D., at any federal university in Nigeria. This is a massive opportunity for students to showcase their skills and get their education fully funded.
Voices of Gratitude
Mr. Kenneth Iduseri, a Physics and Math teacher from the University Demonstration Secondary School, couldn’t contain his excitement. He’s thrilled that the state government is investing in students in public and private schools. He said it’s a “golden opportunity” that won’t be wasted, and he believes it will significantly impact the students’ academic journey.
Why It Matters
This competition is a real win for science education in Nigeria. It’s showing students that hard work pays off and that there are incredible opportunities out there for those who excel. It’s also a move to boost the nation’s scientific prowess on a larger stage. YONSPA is not just about academic performance, but about igniting passion for innovation and discovery.
Stay tuned for more updates as the competition heats up! This is one science battle you won’t want to miss.
A Quick Look into Edo State’s Commitment to Education
Edo State has a vibrant cultural history with the Edo, Afemai, Esan, Owan, and Akoko-Edo people tracing their roots to the historic Benin City. This competition is also a testament to Edo State’s commitment to the future of its people and the country as a whole through its continuous investment in education and innovation.
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