The 2nd edition of Spelling Bee, a words spelling competition among school children, is set to begin in Yobe State.
This was announced by the state government through one of the co-host and sponsors, the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) on Friday.
While the maiden edition took place in August 2021, YOSEMA said that this will hold in July this year, with participants from different schools across the state.
Co-hosted with the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the themed of the Spelling Bee; Spelling to Improve Learning: A Key to Resilience, is among other things, aims to build resilience among young pupils, particularly those from conflict-affected communities.
According to YOSEMA executive secretary, Dr. Mohammed Goje, the competition will not only encourage school children to learn spellings and the use of English words, but also instigate and motivate them to cultivate the culture of learning, intellectualism, competition as well as boost their confidence.
Goje explained that both private and public schools will constitute the total of 72 schools that will participate in the program.
While 37 schools will come from the state capital Damaturu, and four from Potiskum local government area, two each from the other 15 LGAs would participate.
In an exclusive interview with MAIDAWA AREWA, YOSEMA boss said that the choice of majority of schools coming from Damaturu is to minimize cost, noting that this is due to inadequate funds for the program.
This, he said is despite contributions and support from personal individuals to support the program.
He however called for more contributions from any interested individuals, groups or organizations to support the program.
Over 1,500 words will be spelled by 142 students, 72 each for male and female during the competition.
It also consist of three stages: the preliminary stage, round 2, and the knock out stage, while the last contestant standing will be declared winner and receive a trophy.
The panel of judges would be led by renowned scholars and reputable personalities, while teachers and other stakeholders will monitor the event.
Also, the event will be jointly anchored by YOSEMA and SUBEB, with support from individuals, organizations and institutions.
