Arewa Radio in Kano has awarded N1 million to the first prize winner of its maiden schools debate competition held in Kano state.
The debate, with the topic “Fuel Subsidy Removal” and sponsorsed by a business entity, Mudassir and brothers, saw Safiya Liman of Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Kura, clinch the first position with 49½ points.
She narrowly defeated Fatima Salisu of Elmer International School, who came second with 49 points, while Hafsat Jamil of Government Girls College (GGC), Kano, emerged third.
Head of Programmes of the station, Prince Daniel, told newsmen after the event that the initiative was designed to help students develop skills, build confidence and encourage reading culture among young people.
According to him, the programme aims to engage the younger generation in conversations that shape the nation and the world.
“This is the first season of Muhawara (The Debate) here in Kano. You can’t go wrong with education or equipping the younger generation.
Creating an enabling environment that inspires learning by encouraging students to read, broaden their horizons and engage in national and global issues, is essential.
“We are hopeful to see our students on world stages like the UN and other global summits. As a media organisation, we are eager to help them harness their skills,” he said.
Daniel explained that 24 students initially indicated interest, after which they were given a topic to attempt.
Sixteen contestants were selected for the main competition after which a winner emerged.
He further said, “We just kicked off this initiative in Kano, and we look forward to what the coming years will hold for participants and winners.
“We are a group of stations, and our sister stations. Nigeria Info in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, already host a similar debate called “I Beg To Differ”, which has been running for years.
“Extending it to other northern states remains a strong possibility.”
Also speaking, the Kano State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Yusuf Kofar Mata, said the performance of students from government schools who clinched the first, third and fourth positions demonstrates the commitment of Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration to improving education in the state.
He assured that the government would continue to support the students to ensure they pursue their education up to tertiary level.
The sponsor of the event, Mudassir Idris of Mudassir and Brothers, said they supported the competition to help students pursue their academic aspirations.
He described all finalists as winners, considering their impressive performances.
Meanwhile, the second position went home with a prize of N700,000 while the third position got N500,000.
