Gift James
Kate Ene David, a 14-year-old student of Intimacy with Christ Secondary School in Nasarawa State, was recently unveiled as the winner of the 2022 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition.
David, who, by virtue of this achievement was also named MTN CEO for a day emerged the winner of the competition out of over 11,000 students that participated. In addition to her CEO status, she was awarded a scholarship grant worth N2.5 million, a laptop, a smartphone, and an MTN goody bag. MTN also presented a N350,000 grant and state-of-the-art ICT devices to her English teacher and school respectively.
An elated Kate said the achievement had made her, her parents, and her school proud. She also said that the knowledge and experience gained as a young CEO of MTN, even if for just one day, will prepare her for a brighter future.
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, lauded the brilliance of Kate Ene David during the competition, saying “It has always been our brand commitment to support government and educational institutions in producing students that are primed for global competitiveness.
“With that in mind”, he continued, “I am confident that our CEO for a Day is on the path to a great future. We are happy to be a part of what promises to be an extraordinary journey:’
Esther Akinnukawe, chief human resource officer of MTN Nigeria, appreciated the staff members for their warm hospitality.
“We can all admit that today was significant, especially because of the lasting impact this event will have in the life of Kate and how much of an inspiration it will serve to the young ones out there”. Akinnukawe then reiterated the belief at MTN, “that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life”, affirming that MTN “will continue to provide opportunities that support students to learn and grow”.
The MTN mPulse Spelling Bee is a self-development proposition designed by MTN Nigeria to promote digital literacy and academic excellence, thus empowering the nation’s educational sector.
