Iwerekun Community High School Claims Third Consecutive Victory in Tolaram Science Challenge
Iwerekun Community High School in Ibeju Lekki has successfully clinched its third consecutive title at the 10th Tolaram Science Challenge (TSC), solidifying its status as a powerhouse in local academic competitions. The school triumphed over Magbon Alade Senior Grammar School in a fiercely contested grand finale.
A Signature Event Showcasing STEM Education
The Tolaram Science Challenge, organized by the Lagos Free Zone, has become a hallmark event for secondary schools in the Ibeju-Lekki region of Lagos. This annual competition not only attracts bright young minds but also emphasizes the importance of STEM education by enabling students to showcase innovative ideas and practical solutions to real-world challenges.
In-depth Participation from Local Schools
This year, sixteen secondary schools participated, each fielding a team of six students. Participants were rigorously tested across five critical disciplines: physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and general knowledge. At the conclusion of the competition, Ibeju High School Lekki and Community High School Lekki secured third and fourth places, respectively, while three exemplary students—Nyong Jebson, Adekunle Ephraim, and Asikodi Chukwu—achieved the top three individual rankings, earning prizes for their accomplishments.
Milestone Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility
During the grand finale, Vinay Saraf, Zone Development Director and representative of Lagos Free Zone’s CEO Mr. Adesuwa Ladoja, lauded the ten-year journey of the TSC as a remarkable achievement that has evolved from a modest initiative into a flagship corporate social responsibility program. This evolution reflects the organization’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The Importance of Learning Beyond Trophies
In his address, Saraf encouraged students to view competitions not merely as opportunities to win trophies, but as vital experiences for personal development. He emphasized skills such as confidence-building, teamwork, and problem-solving. Acknowledging the impact of knowledge and experiences gained during the competition, he stated that these lessons will resonate long after the event.
Commitment to Educational Improvement
Mr. Vishal Shah, Director and Chief Sustainability Officer at Lagos Free Zone, reiterated the zone’s dedication to enhancing educational quality in the Ibeju-Lekki area through initiatives like the TSC. He noted that over the past decade, the competition has fostered healthy rivalries among students, resulting in improved performance in various qualifying examinations.
Vision for the Future of Local Education
Mr. Olakunle Fadumiye, the visionary behind the TSC, articulated the competition’s aim to create ambassadors of excellence among participants, inspiring them to return as role models for their peers. He reflected on the initial challenges many students faced in pursuing science subjects, emphasizing the importance of expanding opportunities to motivate future generations. Fadumiye urged the Lagos Free Zone to prioritize industrial training, internships, and NYSC placements for TSC graduates, highlighting their significance for career readiness.
Acknowledgment of Educational Impact
The Deputy Director of the School Support Unit in Ikoyi Education District 3, Mr. Olubunmi Ajibola Molebise, praised the continuous efforts of Lagos Free Zone and Tolaram in sustaining the competition’s vision. His remarks underscored the positive influence of the TSC on students in Ibeju Lekki, fostering a robust reading culture and encouraging competitive spirit among educators.
Additionally, thirty-two students received Unified Tertiary Educational Examinations (UTME) scholarships for their outstanding performance in the competition, further emphasizing the enduring impact of this initiative. Following the ceremony, Fawaz Alayo, captain of the Iwerekun Community High School team, expressed his excitement over their victory, crediting the school’s supportive environment and the dedication of their teachers.
