Lagos School Wins Science Challenge for Third Year Running

When Iwerekun Community Senior High School took the stage at the 10th annual Tolaram Science Challenge, they weren't just accepting another trophy. They were proving that consistent investment in student potential creates lasting excellence.

The school from Ibeju-Lekki defeated Magbon-Alade Senior Grammar School in the grand finale, securing their third straight victory. Ninety-six students from 16 secondary schools competed across five subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and General Knowledge.

Three standout students earned special recognition. Nyong Jebson placed first, followed by Adekunle Ephraim in second and Ashikodi Chukwu in third, each receiving cash prizes for their achievements.

Lagos Free Zone sponsors the annual competition, which has grown from a modest initiative into one of the region's flagship educational programs. The event focuses exclusively on schools in the Ibeju-Lekki area, creating opportunities for students who might otherwise lack access to high-level STEM competitions.

"Today's students are tomorrow's innovators, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders," explained Adesuwa Ladoja, CEO of Lagos Free Zone. The company views the competition as part of community development that extends beyond infrastructure and job creation.

The Ripple Effect

The impact reaches far beyond the winners. Over ten years, the challenge has fostered healthy academic competition across the entire region, improving performance in qualifying examinations at participating schools.

Students who compete become ambassadors of excellence at their home schools, regardless of whether they win. They return with problem-solving skills, teamwork experience, and newfound confidence in their abilities.

Directors at Lagos Free Zone emphasized that the competition teaches students to see challenges as growth opportunities rather than just contests for trophies. The knowledge gained, friendships built, and experiences shared remain valuable long after the final scores are announced.

The sustained success of schools like Iwerekun Community Senior High proves that when communities invest consistently in youth education, students rise to meet and exceed expectations.