The second edition of the Ultimate Mind Challenge (UMC) has concluded with outstanding performances from primary school pupils, reinforcing the importance of academic competitions in nurturing intellectual development, confidence, and leadership among young learners.
Organised by the Reel Foundation in partnership with the Dolly Children Foundation, the competition brought together pupils from various schools to compete in intellectually stimulating contests including Spelling Bee, Scrabble, and Chess.
The event, tagged Ultimate Mind Challenge 2.0, provided a platform for participants to showcase their academic abilities, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills, while encouraging healthy competition and lifelong learning.
Speaking at the event, Ajoke Omoware Adeola, founder and executive director of Reel Foundation, said the initiative was designed to inspire children to embrace learning and recognise their intellectual potential from an early age.
According to her, the competition extends beyond the quest for prizes and recognition, serving as a tool for building confidence and fostering curiosity among young learners.
“The Ultimate Mind Challenge is more than a competition; it is a platform that nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and inspires children to believe in their intellectual capacity. We are proud to support an initiative that is shaping the future of education in such a meaningful way,” she said.
Also speaking, Adedolapo Osuntuyi, executive director of Dolly Children Foundation, described the programme as part of the organisation’s broader commitment to child development and educational advancement.
She noted that the performances recorded during the competition demonstrated the immense potential that exists among Nigerian children when given the right opportunities and support.
“Every child who participated today has shown us that the future is bright. At Dolly Children Foundation, we remain committed to creating opportunities that help children discover their potential and excel beyond limitations,” Osuntuyi stated.
The competition produced several standout performers across the different categories.
In the Basic 4 Spelling Bee category, Wayas Jewel of King’s Heart School emerged winner, while Kehinde Feranmi of Perlemont Schools secured second place. Samira Gabriel of Little Jewels School finished third.
For the Basic 5 and 6 category, Olukotun Hameedat of Markfavour School claimed first position, followed by Olatunde Esther of NESGEL Schools in second place and Ajayi Racheal of Bright Kid Academy in third.
The Scrabble contest was won by Keith Silas of Marshall International Academy. Abai Comforter of King’s Heart School finished second, while Adeshola Joshua of Delightsome Beulah Generation School placed third.
In the Chess competition, Mutiulahi Ibrahim of Dolly Stars School emerged champion. Samuel Richard of Delightsome Beulah Generation School secured second place, while Adewunmi Mazeed of Marshall International Academy came third.
The event also attracted commendation from education stakeholders and government representatives, who highlighted its contribution to academic development and youth empowerment.
Benjamin A. Sorunke of the Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology described the programme as a transformative initiative that provides a supportive environment for young learners to thrive academically.
Similarly, Ogunmodede of the Ministry of Education, Abeokuta, praised the educational value of the competition, noting that even observers benefited from the learning experience.
Following the success of the second edition, the organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach and impact of the Ultimate Mind Challenge in subsequent editions.
