Gradel International School, Umuahia, has emerged winner of the 14th edition of the 2025/2026 Abia State Secondary Schools Debate Competition, organized by the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with Vision Africa Radio.
The six-month competition featured students from secondary schools across Abia’s 17 local government areas and focused on the topic: “Is the Grading System an Accurate Measure of a Student’s Intelligence?”
At the grand finale held at Vision Africa Radio, Umuahia, University Demonstration Secondary School, Umuahia, finished second, while Victorious Covenant High School, Aba, secured third place.
Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, commended the students and organizers, emphasizing that education should go beyond grades to include character building, creativity and leadership development.
Founder of Vision Africa, Archbishop Dr. Sunday Onuoha, called for improved security in schools, while retired Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, represented by Mr. Kester Ekekwe, encouraged students to cultivate strong reading habits.
As part of the event, Vision Africa announced sponsorship of WAEC examination fees for outstanding participants, with Archbishop Onuoha extending the gesture to all six finalists.
The competition concluded with Esther Stephen of University Demonstration Secondary School emerging as the Overall Best Speaker, while Gradel International School celebrated a well-deserved victory for its outstanding performance.
