November 19, (THEWILL) — Thirteen-year-old Ebunoluwa Seth Oluwatimilehin of Igando Community Senior High School, Lagos, has emerged winner of the 15th UBA Foundation National Essay Competition, becoming the youngest student ever to claim the top prize.
Seth, an SS2 student, received a N10 million educational grant, redeemable at any African university of his choice. His victory also marks the first time in over eight years that a male student has won the competition, breaking a streak of female champions.
At the grand finale held at UBA House, Lagos, the bank awarded laptops and learning tools to all 12 finalists, reinforcing its commitment to educational empowerment across the continent.
UBA Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, described the competition as a cornerstone of the bank’s youth-development agenda, noting that such initiatives inspire creativity, critical thinking, and academic excellence. CEO of the UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, added that the programme has grown significantly over 15 years, becoming one of Africa’s most impactful literacy-promotion platforms.
Seth, overwhelmed by his win, said the competition proved that “passion and hard work truly pay off”, expressing gratitude to the foundation for the opportunity.
Beyond its academic significance, the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition carries wider economic implications:
1. Human Capital Development; By identifying and supporting bright students early, the programme contributes to building a skilled future workforce, a driver of long-term economic growth. Educational grants such as Seth’s reduce financial barriers and encourage upward mobility.
2. Boost to Literacy and Critical Thinking; Higher literacy levels strengthen national productivity. Students who participate in writing-based competitions often perform better academically and professionally, improving Nigeria’s talent pipeline.
3. Investment in Africa’s Knowledge Economy; The initiative aligns with the continent’s shift toward a knowledge-driven economy, fostering youth capable of contributing to sectors like technology, finance, and innovation.
4. Corporate Social Responsibility with Economic Payoff; UBA’s consistent investment in education strengthens its brand value and supports financial-sector stability by promoting an enlightened, economically active population.
Seth’s victory highlights the broader impact of the UBA Foundation’s investment in youth education. By empowering students through literacy and critical thinking initiatives, the Foundation is helping to build a stronger human-capital base. One that can support long-term economic growth and a more competitive future for Nigeria.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze
