By Abubakar Musa Haruna

The Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation has commended the Borno State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) for organising a debate and quiz competition for basic schools across the state to mark two years of what it described as “uncommon transformation” in the basic education sector under the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.

The Commissioner, Engr. Abba Lawan Wakilbe, represented by Professor Bulakarima Kagu, gave the commendation in Maiduguri during the grand finale of the Basic Schools Inter-School Debate and Quiz Competition held on Thursday at the Yemi Osinbajo Primary School premises.

The debate topics featured “Mobile phones should be allowed in schools or not” for Junior Secondary Schools and “Male children are easier to raise than female children” for primary schools.

Engr. Wakilbe urged students to cultivate the habit of regular reading, noting that improved reading culture enhances academic performance, helps them excel in examinations, and prepares them for future opportunities. He declared the competition open and encouraged the learners to stay committed to their studies.

Executive Secretary of SUBEB, Professor Umar Goni, commended Local Government Education Authorities for supporting the transformation of basic education in the last two years. He also praised Governor Zulum for appointing a dedicated and visionary Commissioner of Education to drive reforms in the sector.

Professor Goni advised pupils and students to remain focused, avoid distractions, and continue working hard to support the Governor’s reform agenda. According to him, “The reward for hard work is more hard work.”

He also urged parents to prioritise the education of their children, stressing that education remains the most reliable solution to societal challenges.

In her remarks, Dr. Mala Galtimari, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Yakura, attributed the achievements recorded in the basic education sector to Governor Zulum’s purposeful and visionary leadership.

Highpoint of Event

The inter-school competition saw Jajeri Primary School emerge winner of the quiz category, with Gwange II taking second place and Asheik Jarma Primary School coming third.

In the Junior Secondary School category, Yemi Osinbajo School clinched first position, Gwange II secured second place, while Federal Low-Cost School emerged third.

Trophies, gifts, and cash prizes were presented to the winners and other participating students.