Academic Excellence Initiative, Epe Unit, Honored at Oba Ayangburen Education Awards

Ekohotblog reports that the 3rd edition of the Oba Ayangburen and the Bee Spelling Competition was held in Ikorodu, Lagos, to celebrate academic excellence and promote education.

The event, hosted in honor of the Ayangburen royal throne, brought together students, teachers, and community leaders to celebrate the power of knowledge and learning.

The competition, led by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) AbdulKabir Adéwálé Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu and 1st Vice Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Traditional Chiefs, focused on improving students’ vocabulary, spelling skills, and confidence. Over 1,600 students participated in the early stages, with 55 making it to the final round.

“The Oba Ayangburen and the Bee is more than a spelling competition. It is a platform to encourage young people to strive for excellence and build confidence for the future,” Oba Shotobi said during the event.

A key moment was the Oba Ayangburen and the Bee’s Advocates for Education Awards, which celebrated individuals and groups making a difference in education across Lagos State. Nominees were carefully selected based on their contributions to improving education in the five zones of Lagos: Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe Divisions.

One of the awardees was the Academic Excellence Initiative (A.E.I.), Epe Unit, recognized for its efforts to support students and teachers in the Epe area. Represented by Mr. Kassim Yusuf Adegboyega (Leecrown), the A.E.I. was praised for its programs that have helped many young people succeed in their studies.

“This award is a big encouragement for us to keep pushing for better education in our communities,” Kassim Yusuf said. “We are thankful to His Royal Majesty and the organizers for recognizing our work. It inspires us to do even more.”

Other award recipients included:

Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development
Chief Owolabi Alaka Yusuf, President of NAPPS Lagos State
Mrs. Uchenna Onwuamegbu-Ugwu, Founder of Edufun TeKlink STEM Foundation
Ms. Seyi Oluyole, Founder of Dream Catchers Academy
Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL/G)
Bunmi Adedayo Foundation (BAF)
Barrister Anthony Ebeh
Mr. Olubode Mac. Oderinde, from the award committee, explained that the awards aim to inspire others to take action in improving education.

“Education is the key to growth in any society. By honoring these great contributions, we hope to motivate more people to join the effort,” he said.

The A.E.I., Epe Unit, promised to continue supporting students and teachers through programs, workshops, and community involvement.

“This is just the beginning,” Kassim Yusuf added. “We are committed to building a better future for our children.”