In a dazzling demonstration of skill and commitment, two remarkable students from Granny Murray Schools have not only brought glory to their institution but also to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by securing gold and silver medals at the prestigious National Youth Games 2023. Oluwateniola Oke, a Year 8 student, and Nesochi Ibekwute, a Year 7 student, showcased their exceptional talents while representing the FCT gymnastics team in a fiercely competitive event.
The National Youth Games, held in Delta State in September, provided a platform for young athletes from across Nigeria to showcase their abilities in a wide range of sports. It was a true test of skill, determination, and resilience, and Teniola and Nesochi seized the moment, delivering stunning performances marked by grace and excellence.
Oluwateniola Oke, a budding star on the rise, not only clinched gold and silver medals but also earned accolades for her flawless routines and unparalleled agility on the gymnastics floor, beam, and vault. Her unwavering commitment to the sport and relentless hard work paid off as she executed complex maneuvers with a finesse that left judges and spectators in awe.
Nesochi Ibekwute, a Year 7 student with an infectious smile and a profound passion for gymnastics, earned a well-deserved gold medal. Her elegant routines and precision in every move held the audience captivated and inspired. Nesochi’s dedication to her craft and determination to excel serves as an inspiration to countless aspiring gymnasts.
Both Teni and Sochi, as they are popularly called at school and club, attribute their success to the Granny Murray Schools Pathway Program, a comprehensive initiative that provided them with top-notch training, mentorship, and opportunities to refine their gymnastic skills. “The Pathway Program at Granny Murray Schools has been our guiding light. It’s where we discovered our passion for gymnastics and nurtured our talents,” they passionately shared. “We are immensely grateful to our coaches, teachers, and our parents for their unwavering support.”
The Granny Murray Schools’ Pathway Program is a deliberate co-curricular endeavor designed to nurture children’s talents and passions, enabling them to excel in non-academic career paths where their true skills shine. It encompasses a wide array of disciplines, including music, coding, robotics, languages, creative arts, and expressive arts, alongside popular sports like football, swimming, and gymnastics. This program has consistently served as a guiding light for students like Teniola and Nesochi, equipping them with the resources and steadfast support necessary to excel in their chosen pursuits.
Renowned for its holistic approach to education, the program emphasizes nurturing talents and passions while simultaneously promoting academic excellence. This distinctive approach, often referred to as “the Granny Murray Advantage,” has consistently produced remarkable success stories, exemplified by Teniola and Nesochi’s outstanding achievements at the National Youth Games 2023.
Mr. Opeyemi Busari, the Head of Schools at the Granny Murray Schools, expressed his pride in Teniola and Nesochi’s accomplishments. “We believe in providing our students with a well-rounded education that empowers them to excel in various pathways. Teniola and Nesochi are shining examples of what our Pathway Program can achieve.”
The triumph of Teniola Oke and Nesochi Ibekwute at the National Youth Games 2023 underscores the school’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering a culture of excellence, and helping students discover their true potential.
As Granny Murray Schools continues to produce champions across diverse fields, the legacy of Teniola and Nesochi will serve as a wellspring of inspiration for generations to come, as they set their sights on the World Olympics Games in the future. These two young gymnasts have unequivocally proven that with determination, unwavering dedication, and the right guidance, dreams can indeed become a reality.
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Caleb Akubo is an education administrator who possesses a distinctive combination of technical acumen and a profound dedication to the field of education. Presently, he holds the position of Community and Engagement Manager at Granny Murray, where he wholeheartedly focuses on nurturing educational relationships and advancing the cause of learning.
LinkedIn.com/in/calebakubo
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