The Rena Development Initiative is advocating greater emphasis on communication and public speaking skills in youth development, saying young people must be equipped to speak for themselves, represent others and contribute to community development.
The call was made at the third edition of the Rena ShootUp Conference, the Edo North edition, which brought together students from schools across the region under the theme, “Young Voices for Stronger Communities.”
Convener of the Initiative, Ruth Onoshiorena Obozeghie, says effective communication is fundamental to leadership, stressing the need to raise young people who can confidently express their ideas, identify challenges in their communities and communicate solutions.
She says the platform is designed to build confidence, encourage constructive engagement and help young people recognise their capacity to influence positive change.
The Edo North edition was the first outside Abuja, where the conference held its maiden and second editions.
The event featured public speaking activities, mentorship and discussions on youth leadership and collaboration.
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At the end of the competition, Jamila Ahmed of Auchi College, Auchi, emerged overall winner, while Francisca Aboya and Melissa Inofomoh, both of Angela Girls Secondary School, finished first and second runners-up respectively.
The Managing Director of BEDC, represented by Regional Manager Kelechi Rufus, addressed participants, while Dr Anthony Ofunne, Head of the Department of Film and Multimedia at Auchi Polytechnic, served as lead judge.
Other judges, Mr Victor Achaa and Mrs Amidat Ilegar, also highlighted the importance of collaboration and responsible communication.
The students expressed excitement over the experience, with calls from participants and stakeholders for the conference to remain in Edo North.
The Rena Development Initiative says it will sustain the ShootUp platform as part of its commitment to developing confident young communicators and nurturing the next generation of community leaders.
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(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
