Carpe Diem means “seize the day”, and that’s just what the vice-principal of BOMCA Academy did on behalf of her students.
Recently, a trio of men arrived in Akpim village and informed Nanim Nidiamaka of a debate competition for students in the Ahiazu Mbaise area. Ten schools would compete for cash prizes awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers by a local foundation sponsoring the event.
Nanim jumped into action and selected five senior secondary students known for their academic prowess. “I provided them with materials and conducted a mock quiz for them in my office. Days later, I was very sure of what I had”, she said.
In my five visits to Nigeria and BOMCA Academy, I have seen the passion our lay missionary teachers have for educating the Masters. So, I’m not surprised by the zeal Nanim displayed in preparing her ad hoc debate squad!
Competition day came with the preliminary round consisting of a series of quizzes on various subjects. This format favored the Masters because they are accustomed to oral quizzes as a method for testing their knowledge.
Nanim wasn’t disappointed. “I had Cal Alexis, Ogu Modesta, and Ihedioha Charles on the hot seat”, she said. “The competition spirit was in them and their performances were second to none!”
By winning the preliminary quiz round, BOMCA qualified for the final round which will consist of debates. Out of the original ten schools, only three remain to compete for the largest to smallest cash prizes.
As you can see, HEAL takes the education of the Masters very seriously as the means by which they will become future Servant Leaders. Our expectations for them are high, not only for this debate contest, but for their future role in emancipating African society.
Stay tuned for my update on how well our debate squad does in the final round. In the meantime, please support our tireless vice-principal, Nanim, and her fellow teachers in our common mission!