…as Ogbe Secondary School wins FUPRE Science Quiz

Outgoing Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh, has called on Nigerian youths to embrace academic excellence and pursue careers in science and technology with determination and focus.

Prof. Rim-Rukeh made the call during a Special Science Quiz Competition organized in his honour, which held at FUPRE’s newly commissioned 500-capacity auditorium. The event, which featured top-performing secondary schools from Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas of Delta State, was aimed at promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education among young students.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Rim-Rukeh reflected on his own academic journey, recalling how he represented Okotie-Eboh Grammar School, Sapele, in science quiz competitions in 1977 and 1978 in the old Bendel State.

“This event brings back memories of my youthful days, when science competitions helped shape my academic path,” he said. “I want every student here to know that greatness begins with dedication. Stay focused, stay committed, and let education be your stepping stone to a brighter future.”

Ogbe Secondary School, Effurun, emerged winner of the quiz, scoring 35 points. Orerokpe Secondary School and Osubi Secondary School followed with 25 and 20 points respectively. The contest covered key science subjects including Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Environmental Science.

The quiz was judged by a panel led by Prof. Ikuobase Emovon, Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology, with support from Mrs. Maria Odiakaose and Dr. (Mrs.) Ogwuche Christiana Ene.

Chairperson of the occasion, Prof. (Mrs.) Doris Ogeleka, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), lauded the initiative as a legacy project that would inspire future generations. She announced prize money of N100,000, N75,000, and N50,000 for the top three schools, which were later doubled by the Vice Chancellor’s wife, Mrs. Mercy Akpofure, to N200,000, N150,000, and N100,000 respectively.

Impressed by the outstanding performance of Ogbe Secondary School’s representatives—Master Odime Maro and Miss Okouromu Rejoice—Prof. Emovon also donated an additional N10,000 to the pair.

In her vote of thanks, Dr. (Mrs.) Jane Omoyine praised the resilience of Ogbe Secondary School students, particularly highlighting their perseverance despite studying in a marshy and challenging environment. She expressed gratitude to the organizers, judges, and all participating schools, while offering prayers for Prof. Rim-Rukeh’s continued success.

The event marked not only an academic competition but also a clarion call by Prof. Rim-Rukeh for young Nigerians to take their studies seriously and build a prosperous future grounded in education and innovation.