Lafarge Africa National Literacy Competition hits final stage

Following the successful completion of the regional competitions in the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, the 3rd edition of Lafarge Africa National Literacy Competition, organised in partnership with the Ovie Brume Foundation has reached its peak. Twelve pupils from Edo, Enugu, Gombe, Kaduna, Lagos and Plateau States will strive to emerge as winners in a keen competition at the Grand Finale, which will hold in Lagos on November 17th, 2016.

The annual Lafarge Africa National Literacy Competition engages male and female pupils from public primary schools across the country in activities that measure and enhance their ability to read, write and spell correctly. It also features literacy tests, essay/summary writing and spelling bees to evaluate their reading and writing abilities.

With active involvement of the State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEB), the competition has been keenly contested among the selected schools in the six geo-political zones of South-West, South-South, South-East North-Central, North-East and North-West, with emergence of winners from each zone.

Speaking on the success of the competition so far, Michel Puchercos, group MD/CEO, Lafarge Africa Plc, described the visible excitement of the participating pupils and their schools as a clear demonstration of motivation to succeed, while expressing the desire to see continued brilliance from the kids at the final stage

Puchercos said the organisation continues to provide support and interventions in education as part of its focus areas of social investments to demonstrate commitment to building a stronger Nigeria. According to him, Lafarge Africa’s focus on the development and promotion of literacy skills among Nigerian children, especially those in the public schools is based on the recognition that literacy – the ability to read, write and comprehend – is tied to all human undertakings. “When our children have the right literacy skills, they develop a strong sense of individual well-being and citizenship, which stimulates the foundation to be future contributors to economic development,” he declared.

In her remarks, Evelyn Oputu, chairperson of Ovie Brume Foundation, expressed delight at the positive impact so far recorded through implementation of the national initiative while applauding the formidable partnership that has ensured its smooth progress.

“The last three years has brought out the best in the children in terms of confidence building, competitive spirit, greater knowledge and cognitive skills, including the ability to handle pressure,” she said.

ODINAKA ANUDU