Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Mid-Town Lights Up the Future: The Story of Their 2nd Annual Reading Competition for Public Schools
By Rotarian Precious Ahiakwo
Port Harcourt, Nigeria — September 26, 2024 — Excitement was palpable at St. Andrews State School 3, Port Harcourt, as young readers from eight public schools gathered to compete in the 2nd Annual Reading Competition organized by the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Mid-Town. This event wasn’t just a contest—it was a celebration of knowledge, a testament to the passion of young minds, and a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
This year, eight schools were carefully selected to compete, including St. Andrews State School 3, Sacred Heart Primary School 2, Sacred Heart Primary School 4, and five other public schools from across Rivers State. The competition brought together eager students, each with a desire to demonstrate their skills, fueled by a shared passion for reading. From the nervous opening rounds to the climactic finale, every child proved that reading can transform lives and open doors to worlds beyond imagination.
Project Service Chair Rotarian Asiton Dick, representing the Club President Rotarian Osato Enomayo, opened the event by emphasizing the significance of reading, especially for students in public schools where access to resources may be limited. “Books are powerful tools that open doors to the imagination, and by encouraging these students to read, we are laying a foundation for their future success,” said Dick. “We want these young readers to know that there are no limits to their dreams—the stories they read today are the seeds of the reality they will create tomorrow.”
The students showcased their reading and comprehension skills, with some reading with impressive confidence, while others, though hesitant, showed great determination. The audience, which consisted of teachers, parents, Rotary Club members, and students, was deeply moved by their efforts, cheering enthusiastically as each participant took their turn. It was clear that the students were not just competing but gaining a sense of empowerment that would last far beyond the day.
Assistant Governor Ajoke Hephzibah Enebele, who attended the event, commended the club for its exceptional initiative. “The ability to read is not just an academic skill; it is the key to unlocking opportunities,” said Enebele. “We need more initiatives like this that help empower our children, inspire them, and give them a platform to dream bigger.” Her words resonated deeply with the teachers and parents, who felt the value of such an intervention.
After a series of reading exercises and questions designed to assess comprehension, Sacred Heart Primary School 4 emerged as the winner, clinching the overall first position. They were followed closely by Sacred Heart Primary School 2 in second place, and St. Andrews State School 3 in third place. The other participating schools, while not taking home the top prizes, left with a sense of accomplishment that was just as valuable. Each child had faced a challenge and emerged stronger, more confident, and more motivated to continue their reading journey.
The students who claimed victory couldn’t hide their excitement. One of the young readers, Mary, a ten-year-old student from Sacred Heart Primary School 4, had tears of joy in her eyes as she received the winning trophy. “I love reading because it takes me to places I have never been,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “I was nervous, but my teachers and my friends encouraged me, and I am so happy we won today.” Mary’s story encapsulated the spirit of the competition—encouraging children to find joy and purpose through reading.
The participating teachers were also filled with gratitude. They spoke about the significance of the reading competition for their students, noting how it had inspired the children to commit themselves to learning. One teacher remarked, “This competition couldn’t have come at a better time. It is inspiring our students to develop a love for reading and to believe in themselves. The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Mid-Town has done something truly remarkable for these children.”
The event was capped off with an awards ceremony, where the top performers were given books, educational materials, and trophies in recognition of their dedication and excellence. However, the real prize for many of these students was the newfound confidence that came from standing before an audience, reading with pride, and knowing their efforts were recognized.
The Project Service Chair, Rotarian Asiton Dick, expressed his appreciation for everyone who participated. “We are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our children through education. This competition is just the beginning,” he said. “We are already looking forward to next year’s competition, and we hope to involve even more schools and inspire even more children.”
On his part, Secretary of the club, Rotarian Clement Kypus said, “The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Mid-Town’s reading competition is much more than an annual event—it is a promise to the community. A promise to light up the path to literacy and knowledge, to empower students who otherwise might not have opportunities, and to remind each child that their potential is limitless. It is initiatives like these that show the power of community and the incredible transformation that can happen when children are given a chance to learn and grow. With each page turned, these young readers are writing the story of a brighter future, and the Rotary Club is proud to be part of that journey”.