Beautiful Beginning Academy on Thursday emerged winners of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) quiz competition focused on media literacy and journalism for students in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The school defeated Cedar Hall Academy, Lugbe, by 8 points to 6. Both schools had finished the second round with 205 points each.
During the first round, Government Senior Secondary School (GSS) Garki scored 70 points, while GSS Gwarimpa garnered 80 points. Cedar Hall Academy scored 95 points, and Beautiful Beginning Academy led with 115 points.
At the conclusion of the second round, GSS Garki scored an additional 40 points, GSS Gwarimpa maintained its score at 80 points, Cedar Hall Academy added 110 points, and Beautiful Beginning Academy contributed 90 points.
In her remarks, council chairperson Ms. Grace Ike stated that the quiz aimed to mentor the younger generation on the workings of the media and to rejuvenate press clubs in schools. She praised the performances of all participants and encouraged teachers to continue organising activities for their press clubs.
“Teachers, please organise your press clubs and occasionally host events, inviting the NUJ-FCT Council, we will be there,” she stated.
Ms. Ike further emphasised that the initiative would foster media literacy, mentorship, and community engagement among students in the FCT.
“The NUJ-FCT Council will persist in creating opportunities that empower young people and promote educational and media-related activities within our schools,” she added.
Earlier, the coordinator of press clubs and Vice Chairman of the NUJ, Yahaya Ndambabo, said the programme reflected the council’s commitment to advancing journalism, media literacy, intellectual development and responsible communication among the youth.
“The NUJ-FCT Council remains dedicated to strengthening press clubs in our schools,” he affirmed. “Through these clubs, students are encouraged to cultivate critical thinking, communication skills, confidence, leadership qualities, and an interest in journalism and public affairs,” he said.
Representatives from the Secondary Education Board, along with other educators, attended the event.
Students who spoke after the competition described the exercise as a welcome development and noted that it was the first of its kind.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards and cash prizes to the winners by Council Chairperson Comrade Grace Ike.
