By Gabriella Ogbu
For the June and November 2023 Cambridge examination series, six secondary school pupils from Nigeria have been awarded the prestigious World Outstanding Cambridge Learners Awards. The announcement was made at the British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learners Awards ceremony in Lagos on Thursday by Lucy Pearson, the country director of the British Council in Nigeria.
The British Council, in partnership with Cambridge International Examinations, celebrates exceptional accomplishments by students from various partner schools across Nigeria. According to Pearson, the winners achieved the highest global scores in English as a second language (speaking endorsement).
The six outstanding students are from Brookstone School, James Hope College in Lagos, and The Ambassadors Group of Schools. Oluwademilade David and Omaghomi Sharon from Brookstone School, Obodoechi Chiedozie, Favour Chinecherem, and Fehintoluwa Erinayo from James Hope College, and Bamidele Sharon from Ambassadors Group of Schools were recognized for their remarkable performance.
Pearson highlighted that, on average, 95 pupils from 37 British Council partner schools in Nigeria earned the highest grades in their schools across various subjects including business studies, ICT, and sociology.
In addition to the World Outstanding Cambridge Learners Awards, 71 students were awarded the Top in Nigeria medals for achieving the highest standard marks in their respective subjects nationwide. The ceremony also saw the presentation of eight Best Across Awards and 48 High Achievement Awards, which acknowledged students with the highest overall standard marks across a range of subjects.
“Cambridge Awards are calculated based on rigorous standards, ensuring that the achievements we celebrate are universally recognized across all fields and levels of education,” Pearson stated.
Pearson emphasized the significant advantages that come with these achievements, noting that the British Council is proud to partner with schools in delivering the UK’s assessments and qualifications in Nigeria. These globally recognized qualifications enable students to attend top universities, secure excellent career opportunities, and pave the way for a more rewarding life.
Mr. Juan Visser, Regional Director of Cambridge University’s Sub-Saharan Africa International Education, congratulated the Nigerian students on their academic success. He highlighted that every aspect of a Cambridge education, including the curriculum, teaching methods, tools, and assessments, is designed to help students reach their full potential.
“The Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards recognize the talent and hard work of students, as well as the dedication and support of their parents and teachers,” Visser stated. “With these qualifications, learners are well-prepared to seize exciting opportunities and achieve their dreams.”
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Oluwademilade David expressed their excitement at being acknowledged. He encouraged fellow students in Nigeria to dedicate themselves fully to their studies, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance in achieving academic success.
