GSS Gwagwalada champions student growth through sports

Government Secondary School (GSS), Gwagwalada, has reaffirmed its dedication to student development through sports by successfully hosting its 29th Inter-House Sports Competition.

Speaking at the annual event, the school’s principal, Mr. Victor Orifah, highlighted that the competition provided a platform for students to showcase their athletic talents while fostering essential values such as teamwork, resilience, discipline, and fair play.

He underscored the significant role sports play in shaping students’ character and preparing them for future challenges. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he stated: “Sport has the power to change the world, the power to inspire, and the power to unite people in a way that little else does.”

Mr. Orifah encouraged students to embrace sportsmanship, integrity, and perseverance both on and off the field.

He also took the opportunity to commend the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, CON, for his remarkable efforts in the education sector, particularly through the accelerated renovation and reconstruction of schools across the Territory.

He acknowledged that these initiatives have transformed the learning environment, creating a more conducive atmosphere for effective teaching and student engagement.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr Orifah also praised the Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, and the Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, Dr. Sani Ladan, for their unwavering commitment to educational excellence in the FCT. According to him, under their leadership, schools have witnessed notable improvements in infrastructure, student welfare, and academic standards.

In his remarks, Dr. Sani Ladan commended the principal and staff for their dedication to holistic education, ensuring that academics and extracurricular activities complement each other in developing well-rounded individuals.

Similarly, the Chairman of the occasion, Reverend Jesse Washington Abasiene, stressed that beyond academics, sports play a crucial role in student development, equipping them with essential leadership skills and preparing them for lifelong success. He applauded the school management for its continuous efforts to positively impact students in every aspect of their growth.

The vibrant event attracted students, teachers, parents, principals, traditional rulers, and distinguished guests. Among the highlights was a march-past competition—won by Katampe House—alongside various track and field events. In the inter-school contests, Government Science Secondary School, Tunganmaje, emerged victorious in both the boys’ and girls’ categories, while Junior Secondary School also secured first place in both categories.

The competition concluded on a celebratory note, with Wopa House emerging as the overall champion, followed by Zuma and Katampe Houses in second and third place, respectively. The event was filled with excitement and camaraderie, reinforcing the school’s commitment to nurturing future leaders through sports.

Sharoneez Emephia