In a spectacular triumph that has set the academic landscape ablaze, Stanley Ugagbe, a Master’s degree student at the University of Abuja studying Media Arts, has ascended to the pinnacle of excellence, emerging as the OVERALL BEST in the highly competitive Essay Writing Competition organized by the National Union of Isoko Students – Worldwide.
Ugagbe’s extraordinary performance earned him an impressive score of 45.5 out of a possible 50, securing his place as the joint champion alongside Ethe Blessing Precious, a remarkable student of Accounting from the University of Benin. Both intellectual titans dazzled the judges with their writing skills, scoring a stunning 45.5 points each and demonstrating academic prowess that stands as a beacon of hope for the next generation of scholars.
Next in line was the exceptional Oteheri-Izomoj Favour, a Law student from Ambrose Alli University, whose sharp intellect secured her 44.5 points. The fiercely competitive field continued with Austine Excellent, a student of Petroleum and Natural Gas Processing Technology at the Petroleum Training Institute, scoring 42.5 points, while Lawrence Oghenefejiro, a Microbiology student at Niger Delta University, rounded out the top ranks with 42 points.
The announcement of these intellectual champions took place during the illustrious Isoko Education Summit, held on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, at Delta State University, Oleh Campus. The summit, which was a gathering of Isoko’s brightest minds and scholars, celebrated the spirit of academic excellence and innovation, with the essay competition standing as a highlight of the event.
According to the organizers, the essays were rigorously evaluated based on five key metrics: Ideas and Relevance (15 points), Organization and Flow (10 points), Innovation and Insight (10 points), Grammar and Clarity (10 points) Presentation and Neatness (5 points).
The competition, open to all Isoko students in tertiary institutions, tasked participants with writing on the transformative theme, “Education as a Catalyst for Socio-Economic Development in Isoko: Strategies for Improvement.” It was a challenge not only of intellect but also of vision, and Stanley Ugagbe, alongside his fellow winners, rose to meet it with unparalleled dedication and brilliance.
Speaking with palpable excitement, Ugagbe reflected on the significance of his victory. “This win is not just mine—it’s a triumph for every school that shaped me,” he said, acknowledging his journey through Igbare Primary School, Igbide Grammar School, the University of Benin, and now the University of Abuja.
“This is also a victory for my roots— Oteri-Igbide community, where I grew up, and Emede, my homeland in Isoko.”
In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, Ugagbe continued, “I am beyond elated. This victory is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the grace of God. To emerge as the best in a competition of this magnitude proves that one can achieve greatness even in the most unlikely places.”
Ugagbe’s victory speech was a masterclass in humility and passion, “I’ve always poured my heart into everything I do, and this is the fruit of that passion. I sincerely thank the leadership of the National Union of Isoko Students for this noble initiative, and I hope it continues to inspire and uplift the youth of Isoko.”
In a touching conclusion, Ugagbe dedicated his victory to a cherished figure in his life: “This win is for my Grandma, Mrs. Princess Ugolo, whose love and wisdom have been my constant guiding light.”
