Delta pupils jet out July 1 for Qatar debate contest

Oritu said, “Delta is going to Qatar to represent Nigeria at the Nigeria-Qatar Schools Debate Championship. It’s a diplomatic programme between Nigeria and Qatar on Education.

The 10-man Delta contingent comprises both the debaters and officials. They are leaving July 1.”

The debaters to represent Nigeria are Wisdom Chukwuma of Government College, Ughelli; Otorvo Uyoyou of Alegbo Secondary School, Effurun; Abraham Honour of Okpaka Secondary School, Okpaka; Ekhamateh Splendour of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba; and Alika Daniel of Utagba-Ogbe Grammar School, Kwale.

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, while hosting the team, at the Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday, promised that the state would fully sponsor the students’ trip to the Qatar championship.

Oborevwori said, “Delta State is proud to sponsor your international trip without hesitation. We are equally committed to supporting other talented Deltans who can represent the state positively.

“As you embark on this trip, we expect you to conduct yourselves honourably, learn as much as you can, and return with success. By God’s grace, you will come back victorious in Jesus’ name.”

The governor said the feat of the Delta students would further inspire his administration to deepen investments in the educational sector.

He commended the students’ parents for their support, urging the team to make their families and the state proud.

“I am truly delighted by the intellectual depth and eloquence demonstrated by these students. They are true ambassadors of Delta State.

“When I see children of this age speak so intelligently, I am very happy. These are not children trained abroad, they are homegrown talents, nurtured here in Delta State. It shows how much we value education.

“Representing Nigeria on the global stage means you have already made us proud. Winning the national debate confirms we are on the right path. It motivates us to do even more for our children,” the governor said.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogwu, congratulated the students for being worthy representatives of the state.

On his part, the Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr Samuel Mariere said, “The children have made Delta State very proud. We promise to give our best as we prepare for the World Championship.”

One of the representatives to the Qatar championship, Chukwuma Wisdom, thanked the Delta Governor for his encouragement throughout the national competition.

He assured that the team would make both the state and the nation proud on the world stage.