The Lagos State chapter of Trinity Writers and Publishers and the Lagos State Ministry of Education have harped on promoting reading culture in primary schools.
This was as the parties hosted the 2024 Trinity Bee spelling competition for primary schools at Bright Sun College, Lagos, on Thursday.
This year’s theme, ‘Bullying, Sexual Harassment and Safety in Schools,’ emphasised the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
In all, 13 private primary schools participated in the competition.
Three students from Dansol Nursery and Primary School, Vicmor School, and Felicia Adebola Memorial School emerged as finalists after an exciting series of preliminary rounds.
In her opening address, the group’s chairperson, Dr Kelina Ochonor, highlighted the event’s goal of promoting a reading culture among children, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 for inclusive and equitable quality education.
She emphasised that the competition celebrated not only academic excellence but also collaborative efforts to combat challenges facing the educational sector.
Ochonor reaffirmed the group’s dedication to fostering a safe learning environment, free from bullying and harassment.
She said, “This event marks a critical milestone in our ongoing efforts to promote academic excellence, critical thinking, and the holistic development of our children in Lagos State.
“Today’s gathering isn’t just about spelling words correctly. It is about building a future where young minds, like the brilliant ones we see here today, are empowered not only with academic skills but also with the values needed to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.
“The theme of this year’s competition, ‘Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Safety in Our Schools,’ couldn’t be more timely. Our schools should be sanctuaries where children can learn, grow, and develop into responsible, capable, and confident individuals, free from threats of intimidation, abuse, and harm.
“Sadly, we know this is not always the case. This theme calls attention to the importance of raising awareness and creating frameworks that ensure safety, respect, and dignity for every child.”
The Director of Safety Training Education Skills and Development at the Lagos State Safety Commission, Esther George, lauded the talent displayed by students from all participating schools.
She noted that future competitions should include students from both public and private schools in Lagos, further expanding opportunities for young learners to engage themselves.
“I am really impressed, the commissioner is aware of this programme. If he’s not, I won’t be here standing.
“So, I think, if we want to organise another one, we will have to combine both the public schools and the private schools please,” she said.
She added, “It is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.”
George emphasised the crucial role teaching plays in shaping the future of society by prioritising the well-being and development of students. This focus is essential for nurturing responsible and informed citizens who can contribute positively to their communities.
Vicmor School emerged as the champion after an exciting competition among the three finalists.
