Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu has described education as a critical tool to unlock meaningful socio-economic development.
Ezewu stated this at Government Model Secondary School, Asaba during the school’s 8th annual Inter-House Sports Competition and Cultural Fiesta which was held in the school playground.
Represented by Mr. Ejiro Mayor, the Commissioner said that the State was prioritizing education due to its multiplier effects in driving other sectors of the economy.
Ezewu stated that sports was also part of the teaching and learning system, adding that it helps to build the children’s health, make them physically fit and encourage healthy competition among children.
The Principal of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, Dr. Obiajulu C. Eboka explained that by the integration of sports and culture into school life, the students would receive a rich, well-rounded education that would prepare them for success in all aspects of life.
Eboka said that that could only be effectively achieved when there was provision of relevant sports and cultural equipment and facilities, just as she solicited the support of the government and well-meaning individuals.
She said that sports was a global event that plays significant roles as a co-curricular part of education in complementing students’ academic activities, noting that sports help to develop and promote the physical and intellectual health of the students.
The principal stated that it was important that the attention of the children was directed to their rich cultural heritage in order to make them aware of their identity and give them a sense of belonging.
She commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, saying that his administration had not relented in promoting and encouraging youth sports in the state even as she expressed gratitude to the State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu for ensuring that sports meet takes place annually in all secondary schools in the State.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Billy K.O.D Onotue said that culture played a vital role in the upbringing of the child, emphasizing that when culture and sports are integrated, there would be well-trained and cultured athletes that would make greater impact in sports.
He admonished the students of different houses to put in their best in the competition.
