By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Ondo State Government has rolled out an ambitious line-up of activities to mark the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, aimed at promoting child development, education, and welfare across the state.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Women Affairs Hall, where the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Seun Osamaye, addressed journalists.
Mrs Osamaye highlighted that National Children’s Day is celebrated annually to honour, recognise, and engage children, especially those in primary and secondary schools.
This year’s event, she said, would reflect a significant departure from previous editions, introducing innovative elements that underscore the administration’s commitment to the intellectual and social well-being of children.
She emphasised that the celebration would not merely be ceremonial but would serve as a platform to showcase the intellectual capabilities of the state’s youth, while promoting a culture of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity.
Osamaye stated that a series of competitions would be organised to identify outstanding students from schools across various local government areas.
These events, according to her, are designed to nurture a reading culture, encourage intellectual rigour, and reward academic excellence among students.
To flag off the week-long celebration, a workshop involving key stakeholders in the education sector was scheduled to take place immediately.
Participants include representatives from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Women Affairs, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Local Government Service Commission, as well as school principals, headteachers, Zonal and Area Education Officers.
The workshop, chaired by the SUBEB Chairman, also featured a special session led by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, who delivered a presentation on the Child Rights Law.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bully-Free Generation,” underscores the importance of empowering children to advocate for themselves and others.
Mrs Osamaye explained that the chosen theme would guide all activities, ensuring that participants carry the message back to their respective schools and institutions.
As part of the week’s events, the State Children’s Parliament, which has been dormant for over a decade, is being revived.
On Tuesday, members of the Parliament will visit the Ondo State House of Assembly to observe plenary proceedings and engage with the Speaker.
Supported by Safety Children International, the young parliamentarians will also undergo a two-day orientation on Wednesday and Thursday to familiarise themselves with parliamentary duties and responsibilities.
On Friday, a pre-rehearsal for the main event, scheduled for the following Tuesday, will take place.
The activities that day will include a public speaking competition based on the celebration’s theme.
Eighteen schools, one from each local government area will present their best speakers.
Additionally, around 2,500 pupils from 100 schools across the state are expected to participate in the event.
Each school will also showcase a cultural display reflecting the unique traditions of their respective communities.
A traditional march-past is also scheduled as part of the day’s festivities.
Osamaye concluded by revealing that winners of the competitions will receive cash prizes, with the top prize set at ₦500,000, followed by ₦200,000 and ₦100,000 for second and third place respectively.
She noted that the prizes and trophies are intended to foster unity, love, and active participation among the students.
