The organisers of the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) have unveiled the top 10 finalists from Ogun State in this year’s national essay competition. The announcement precedes an interactive mentorship session with Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, scheduled as part of the 17th edition of the cultural exchange programme.
Finalists Selected from Ogun State Schools
The finalists emerged after judges evaluated entries submitted by secondary school students across Ogun State, according to a statement by the organisers. The winners of the first, second and third prizes will be announced on 15 July during the 17th edition of the cultural exchange, tagged WS@92, alongside winners from other participating states.
The Ogun State finalists are:
- Faparusi Tioluwani – The Ambassadors School, Ota
- Oseni Tolulope Nurudeen – Iganmode Grammar School, Ota
- Adedokun Elemide Hilmoh – Adedokun International Schools
- Aina Oluwadarasimi – Migration Model College, Ijebu-Ode
- Olusanwo Precious Semilore – Iganmode Grammar School
- Adegbola Mujibat – Alameda Grammar School (Senior), Ado-Odo
- Iheme Praise Chinenye – Akesan Community Grammar School
- Oladipo Nasir Ahmad – Ahmadiyya Science College
- Akinnawonu G. Oluwabukunmi – Redeemer’s High School
Soyinka to Mentor Finalists in Interactive Session
The organisers said the award ceremony forms part of the “Do Your Own Thing” programme, one of the flagship activities of this year’s Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange. Professor Soyinka is expected to meet the finalists, mentor them and lead an interactive question-and-answer session designed to encourage critical thinking, creativity, leadership and cultural awareness. The students will also participate in cultural and educational activities during the programme.
Linda Amadi-Olowookere, producer of the youth programme, described the interaction with the Nobel laureate as one of the most anticipated aspects of the annual exchange. She said it provides students with a rare opportunity to engage directly with Africa’s first Nobel Prize winner in Literature in an environment focused on learning, mentorship and inspiration.
About the Competition
According to the organisers, the annual essay competition aims to identify and nurture young writers while promoting excellence in writing, civic responsibility, and the values Professor Soyinka has championed throughout his career. Now in its 17th edition, the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange has grown into one of Africa’s leading cultural and educational platforms, bringing together young people through literature, the arts, civic engagement and intercultural dialogue.
