… As 1,000 Students Gather for 7th Annual Reading Competition in Abeokuta”
The Seventh Annual Children Reading Competition, held on October 25, 2024, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (Main Auditorium) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, brought together over 1,000 students from 100 schools.
Organized by the SixthSense Initiative under the leadership of Chief Abiodun Lasile, this event has become a beacon of hope in reversing the troubling decline in children’s reading culture.
Driven by the belief that “readers are leaders,” Chief Lasile launched this initiative to nurture curiosity and critical thinking in young minds. The goal, he emphasized, is to cultivate informed, well-rounded leaders of tomorrow by instilling a love for reading and lifelong learning. “Through this competition, we are setting the stage for a generation that values knowledge and leadership,” he remarked.
A hallmark of this year’s event was its inclusive approach. The competition, which was free for all participants, provided children from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to come together, sharing a love for learning that transcends socio-economic divides. The theme, “Reading Culture: A Tool for Successful Learning and Self-Actualization within a New Generation,” set a tone that was educational, motivational, and transformative.
In addition to the competition, activities included storytelling sessions, reading demonstrations, and insightful lectures highlighting the role of literacy in today’s digital age. A book exhibition featured a variety of genres, from fiction to academic resources, inspiring students to expand their reading interests.
Recognition and awards were presented to participants who displayed exceptional dedication, intelligence, and enthusiasm throughout the competition. The children’s energy was palpable as they took on each task with eagerness, proving that with the right encouragement, young minds can achieve exceptional results.
The SixthSense Initiative team, including judges, ushers, and event staff, worked seamlessly to manage logistics and ensure a memorable experience for everyone involved. Though Chief Lasile was briefly called away to the palace for the ongoing Odun Omo Olowu festival, he returned to oversee the event, reinforcing his unwavering commitment to youth literacy and empowerment.
A high note of the day was the presence of Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, along with the queens and other dignitaries. Their attendance lent cultural prestige to the competition and underscored the importance of community support for literacy initiatives.
Each participating school received certificates, while the children were presented with free books and souvenirs, encouraging them to continue their reading journey beyond the event. These gifts symbolized a commitment to keeping young minds engaged long after the day concluded.
Reflecting on the significance of the competition, Chief Lasile emphasized the lasting impact of literacy on personal growth and community development. “Our mission is to create a legacy of curiosity and intellectual confidence that extends well beyond these walls,” he noted.
The Seventh Annual Children Reading Competition stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community rallies behind educational development. Through continuous dedication and a vision rooted in cultural values, Chief Lasile and the SixthSense Initiative have created a platform that fosters literacy, leadership, and lifelong learning among Nigeria’s youth.
