The Foundation for Human Capacity Development and Innovation on Monday organised the second edition of its annual inter-school spelling bee competition for primary school pupils in Suleja, Niger State.
The event, sponsored by Rear Adm. Hamza Ibrahim, was held at the foundation’s premises and began with the national anthem.
It was followed by remarks from one of the organisers, Fatima Adamu.
Adamu described the foundation as a non-governmental organisation focused on education, innovation, and skills development for community empowerment.
She said the spelling bee was designed to promote quality education and build confidence among young learners.
According to her, the initiative aims to expand vocabulary, improve public speaking skills, and encourage healthy academic competition among schools.
She added that the foundation also promotes academic excellence, character building, and recognition of young talents.
The Special Guest of Honour, Mohammed Baba, commended the organisers for enhancing children’s academic and communication skills.
He noted that although modern learners now have access to Artificial Intelligence tools, the competition rules ensured pupils relied on their individual ability without external assistance.
He urged the pupils to remain focused on their studies and declared the event open.
It was reported that 32 schools registered for the competition, with two pupils representing each school.
In his closing remarks, Mohammad Jafaru appreciated the participants, teachers, and organisers for their efforts and urged the qualified contestants to prepare for the tougher rounds ahead.
Participants were given 25 seconds to spell each word.
At the end of the exercise, 12 schools qualified for the quarter-finals and semi-finals scheduled for Monday, May 19, while the grand finale will hold on Wednesday, May 20.
