Secondary school students in Ilaro have made a strong and unified declaration that education is not a scam, reaffirming their commitment to learning and purposeful living. This declaration was made during the impactful Ilaro Career Fest 2026, themed “Education Is Not a Scam", held 14th March 2026 at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Ilaro Study Centre, Orita, Ilaro-Yewa.
The event, organised by The Kingdom Academy in partnership with the Ilaro Youth Council and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Ilaro Study Centre, brought together over 500 students from across Ilaro and its environs. It was designed to address growing uncertainty among young people about the value of education by providing clarity and exposure.
Through a combination of a keynote address, career breakout sessions, academic competitions, and a panel discussion, the event created a platform for students to engage meaningfully with professionals and better understand the pathways available to them.
Delivering the keynote address, Ajiroba Dapo Oke, Registrar of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, emphasised that education remains a reliable pathway to personal development and societal relevance. Comrade Abduljabaar Ayelaagbe, Secretary to the Yewa South Local Government, also encouraged students to remain disciplined and focused, noting that while the system may have its imperfections, consistency and effort will always produce results.
The panel session featured professionals from diverse fields, including Patrick George (Brand Designer, Cowrywise), Tiloye Adetunji (Cybersecurity Auditor, PwC), Joke Adetunji (Technician, Cummins West Africa), Dr. Kemi Adebari (Medical Doctor), Timothy Olamide (Lawyer, Platinum & Taylor Hill LP), Adeola Adeyemi (Principal Consultant, SEED, Nigeria), Olaniyan Samuel (Journalist).
The Career Fest also celebrated academic excellence through its competitions. In the Quiz Competition, Promising Generation Schools emerged first, followed by Royal Breed Academy and Ansarudeen Model College. In the Essay (Oratory) Competition, Perfect Assurance secured first position, with Victory Kings and Queens Secondary School and Ipadeola Bolaji Model College placing second and third respectively.
The success of the event was further strengthened by the support of individuals and organisations. Special recognition goes to Mr. Tope Alabi, who sponsored exercise books for all students in attendance, alongside others who contributed in cash and kind.
The event was delivered through the dedication of a committed organising team who worked behind the scenes to ensure its success.
According to the team leads, Jesutunmise Adeyemi and Tosin Ogundimu, the initiative provided students with a rare opportunity to ask questions, gain practical insight, and begin thinking more intentionally about their future.
In a defining moment, students collectively reaffirmed their belief in education and their commitment to making purposeful choices. The event has since sparked a renewed sense of direction among participants, reinforcing education as a tool for empowerment rather than a burden.