As schools across Oyo State set for resumption after the lockdown occasioned by the global COVID-19 pandemic, students in the state are getting prepared for the annual Seyi Makinde Essay Competition.
This indication was given in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital by Ayotomiwa Adebayo, Spokesperson, Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora, a socio-political support group.
The statement indicated that the competition is aimed at empowering youths towards socio-economic problem-solving.
It read in parts, “The competition aims to create a platform for public policy discourse on the socio-economic concerns of Oyo State’s youths comprising over 70 per cent of the state’s population.
“In line with the vision of Governor Makinde,youths will be equipped with necessary socio-economic and educational exposure and skills for their future career development. These future leaders will take the mantle of leadership and propel Oyo State to the next phase of developmental revolution.”
Participants are expected to choose between two essay topics: ‘The role of youth in achieving good governance, leadership and development in Oyo state’ and ‘Digital grassroots innovation for sustainable agriculture in Oyo State.’
Speaking on the conditions for participation, the statement read, “Entrants must be either an indigene of Oyo or reside in the state; they must be tertiary students; they must be between ages 15 and 30; the maximum word count is 1,000 with font size of 12 and line spacing of 1.5. There is 20 per cent plagiarism percentage limit and deadline for submission is November 15, 2020.
“Also, the only language allowed is English and submissions must be made in Microsoft Word format alone. The topic should be addressed as it applies to the Oyo State situation and entries be made to [email protected]
“The best essay will be awarded a sum of N150,000, the second best a sum of N100,000 and the third best a sum of N50,000. Top 20 essays will be sponsored for competent development training.”
