14-year-old Hikma Abimbola Abdulkareem from Al-Hikmah University International School, Kwara State, has emerged winner of the 2023 TVC National Female Debate championship held in Lagos.
Hikma Abimbola Abdulkareem defeated four others to emerge winner after speaking on the topic, “Should government or parents regulate the use of social media by children?” and “Is Artificial intelligence (AI) a threat to humanity or a step further in Civilisation?”
The National Female Debate competition was organised by TVC Women Network, an initiative formed by female staff of TVC Communication, to empower the girl- child towards nation building. The maiden edition was held on October 16, 2021.
Addressing journalists at the event, the Director, People, Culture, Experience and Operations (PCEO), Kemi Sholumi, said over 200 were selected from various schools across the country.
Sholumi noted that only five students and schools made it to the semi-final stage, while two from the five, made it to the finals. She listed the students to include Emmanuella Ashipa from Phoebestar Royalty School, Osogbo who came 5th, Praise Owoeye of Laurels International School, Isolo, Lagos State came 4th; Bliss Ejiofor of Eternal King Comprehensive College, Lagos, and Kalu Glory Virginia of Ransome Kuti Memorial school, Lagos, were second and first runners up respectively, while Abdulkareem emerged winner.
“This year’s competition was aimed at creating a platform that will enable young female students across Nigeria to express their intellectualism towards the growth and development of the country.
We are intentional in ensuring that women have a voice and are well represented across all levels in the society without fear and oppression, that’s why we have decided to catch them young through this competition.”
The winner was rewarded with one million Naira while other finalists went home with ₦500,000 (second), ₦300,000 (third) and ₦100,000 (fourth and fifth) respectively.
An elated Abdulkareem attributed her victory to God, saying determination and adequate preparation led her to victory. She commended the organisers for the opportunity given to showcase her intellectual prowess, while advising other young girls to always believe in themselves. She also expressed appreciation to her parents and teachers for their support.
