Eziaku Esther Enwereuzo, a brilliant 15-year-old student from His Grace High School in Enugu, has emerged as the winner of the 2021 United Bank for Africa (UBA) National Essay Competition. This prestigious contest, organized annually by UBA Foundation, aims to promote reading culture, healthy competition, and intellectual excellence among secondary school students nationwide.
Outshining Over 7,000 Contestants
Eziaku beat an impressive field of over 7,000 contestants from across Nigeria, showcasing her exceptional writing skills and depth of knowledge. Her essay, which addressed the topic “If you could set up an entrepreneurship business, what would it be and how would it impact Africa?”, impressed the judges with its clarity, creativity, and vision.
Prizes and Recognition
As the winner, Eziaku received:
– N3 million scholarship grant to study at any African university of her choice
– A laptop
– A trophy
– Certificate of merit
– A school bag
The runners-up, Nduka Chukwubikem from Abia State and Hajarat Abdulwahab from Kano, secured second and third places, respectively, and received:
– N2.5 million and N2 million scholarship grants
– Laptops
– Certificates of merit
– School bags
UBA’s Commitment to Education
UBA’s Managing Director, Kennedy Uzoka, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting education and national development through initiatives like this competition. “We are proud to be using this platform to boost reading culture and encourage healthy competition among students,” he stated.
Inspiring Future Generations
Eziaku’s achievement serves as an inspiration to her peers and aspiring writers. Her dedication and perseverance demonstrate that hard work and commitment can lead to exceptional outcomes.
UBA Foundation’s Impact
Since its inception, the UBA National Essay Competition has produced hundreds of winners, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to national development. The competition has been extended to other African countries, including Ghana, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
Key Statistics:
– 15-year-old Eziaku Esther Enwereuzo wins 2021 UBA National Essay Competition
– Over 7,000 contestants participated nationwide
– N3 million scholarship grant awarded to the winner
– 11th edition of the UBA National Essay Competition
– UBA Foundation has produced hundreds of winners since the competition’s inception This achievement underscores the importance of promoting literacy, education, and intellectual excellence among Nigeria’s youth, and Eziaku’s success serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through determination and hard work.