Students from selected public secondary schools in Ogun State have showcased exceptional creativity and advocacy at the School Storytelling Competition organised by the Rural Women Studies Association (RWSA), in collaboration with the Gender Development Initiative (GDI) and the Initiative for Peace and Comfort.
The competition, held at Pius De Pius Event Centre, Abeokuta, was themed "Unsung Women: Breaking Barriers, Building the Future." It provided a platform for students to celebrate the resilience, achievements and enduring legacies of women whose sacrifices and contributions have largely gone unnoticed despite their significant impact on families, communities and national development.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of RWSA, Prof. Olubunmi Ashimolowo, said the competition was designed to inspire young people to appreciate the invaluable roles women play in shaping society while challenging stereotypes and promoting gender equality through storytelling.
She encouraged the participants to tell their stories with confidence and commended their teachers for providing quality mentorship.
In his goodwill message, the Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade, who was represented by Barr. Kemi Lawal, lauded the organisers for the initiative.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Justice to upholding human rights, promoting gender equality, protecting vulnerable groups and supporting educational programmes that foster a more just and inclusive society.
Also speaking, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, represented by the Onijale of Ijale Papa, Oba Michael Ajibola, described the competition as more than a contest, saying it was a celebration of history, culture and the extraordinary women whose sacrifices have strengthened families and communities over generations.
He noted that many women have worked tirelessly behind the scenes without expecting recognition or reward and urged the students to tell their stories passionately and sincerely.
The Permanent Secretary, Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Foluso Obienu, represented by Mr Yinka Oyeladun, encouraged the participants to remember that every voice has the power to inspire change.
According to her, "Whether you emerge as the winner or not, your participation contributes to preserving the legacies of women whose stories deserve to be heard and celebrated."
At the end of the competition, Baptist Girls' College, Idi Aba, emerged overall winner with 82.83 points, while Reverend Kuti Memorial School, Isabo, came second with 78 points. St. Peter's College, Olomore, secured the third position with 76.6 points.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Vice Chairman of Abeokuta South Local Government, the Baale of Lebure Town and Grand Patron of the Gender Development Initiative, Chief Lashi Oluwaseun, among others.