In a bid to encourage the interest of students, create awareness for the numerous opportunities inherent in Fine Arts and revive its dying interest, the Ogun State Government has organised a two-day Fine Arts competition for secondary school students across the state.
The State Commissioner For culture and tourism Hon. Adijat Adeleye said that research and statistics have shown that the study of art is no longer of interest to students and it’s gradually going into extinction.
Adeleye made the call at a competition held at June 12 cultural center Kuto Abeokuta the state capital.
She added that immediate action of the government to organise the contest and motivate both teachers and students in the field not to be discouraged saying the study of arts is self-sustainable among others benefits that could be derived it.
Hon. Adeleye-Oladapo commending the teachers for their passion in the subject, and imparting it to younger generations, encouraged the students to intensify their efforts towards taking the subject a career worthy and capable of generating huge income for them, adding that the title of the Art Work, “Culture and Peaceful Coexistence”, is an avenue to evangelize love and unity to the world through crafts.
She disclosed that the overall winner would be rewarded and also represent the state at national Arts competitions, specifically the forthcoming the National Festival of Arts and Culture in November.
In his address, the Director of Visual Arts in the Ministry, Mr. Emmanuel Ikwue assured that the State Government, through the Ministry would ensure the continuity of the maiden edition to give adequate attention to Arts and Crafts, in order not to go into extinction, while appreciating all stakeholders in the sector for the symbiotic relationship given to the Ministry.
Iganmode Grammar School, Ota emerged overall champion, defeating Government Science and Technical College, Abeokuta and Ijebu Muslim College, Ijebu Ode, to the second and third positions respectively.
Other participating schools compensated with certificates of participation include Salau Abiola Comprehensive High School, Osiele, Lantoro High School, Abeokuta Girls Grammar School Onikolobo, Army Day Secondary School, Alamala and Anglican Grammar School Ota.