By Cynthia Talatu Batuta
The FCT Secondary Education Board (FCT SEB), through its Bilateral Division has formally celebrated the maiden edition of the International Day for Cultural Diversity.
In her address, the representative of the Director/ Secretary of the Board, Mrs Jacqueline Amasike ,Director School Services highlighted the significance of diversity in shaping values, behaviors, and identity, while commending the Bilateral Relations Division and partners for organizing the event.
She encouraged students and participants to actively engage in the activities and enjoy the rich display of talent, creativity, and cultural expression.
Also speaking , the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), represented by Digital Media Assistant Ms. Bolanle Olumekor on behalf of UNIC Director Mr. Ronald Kayanja emphasized the importance of cultural dialogue in achieving sustainable development goals and fostering an inclusive society where no one is left behind. She commended the division for the initiative,assuring of fruitful partnership with the centre.
Director of the Bilateral Division,Mrs Tolu Omolaiye who delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks to all Stakeholders said,through the maiden edition,the Bilateral Relations Division reinforces its commitment to fostering Cultural understanding,preparing students to be active, socially responsible and globally aware citizens.
She acknowledged the Stakeholders commitment to promoting inclusion, cultural awareness, and education that nurtures tolerance, empathy, and social cohesion among students.She expressed her delight for future engagements and partnerships with various stakeholders in the line of cultural and arts services.
She further explained that a total of 21 FCT Schools from across the Six Area Councils showcased their cultural skills in dancing fashion parades ,Poetry rendition and arts exhibitions.
The highlights of the colourful event was the presentation of Trophies to the winners such as Government Secondary School, Zone 3 emerged first with 256 scores Model Secondary School Maitama with 243 scores as Second position and Government Secondary School, Tungamaje 240 msrks as third position while in fashion parades, Government Secondary School, Kuje came first with 176 scores,followed by Government Day Secondary School, Dutse with 175 scores as second position and Government Secondary School, Abuja with 170 scores as third position .
The event which celebrated the richness of cultural heritage emphasizing tolerance, mutual respect, tolerance and peaceful coexistence as key pillars for unity and societal development.