Catholic secondary schools across the Diocese of Oyo gathered at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, Iseyin, for a remarkable Paper Presentation Competition held in celebration of the 59th World Communications Day. The event emphasized the importance of respectful and impactful communication, aligning with this year’s global theme: “Share with Gentleness the Hope that is in Our Hearts” (1 Peter 3:15–16).
The program opened with a prayer led by Miss Mercy Adewale of St. Michael Catholic College, Okeho. This was followed by a heartfelt welcome address from Rev. Fr. Benedict Joshua, who expressed gratitude to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, for approving and supporting the initiative. He also acknowledged the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Boniface Wuraola, and welcomed the Dean of Iseyin Deanery, Rev. Fr. Martin Badejo, as well as all attending priests, school staff, and students.
Fr. Joshua recalled his tenure as the Administrator of Christ the King Catholic College, Saki, during which he consistently advocated for inter-school intellectual programs. He expressed joy that his vision had finally materialized, and praised the Diocese’s Communication Department for organizing such a meaningful event, especially in a time when clear and compassionate communication is critically needed.
In his keynote address, Rev. Fr. John Irekiigbe, Director of Communications for the Diocese, highlighted the objective of the program—to bring the message of World Communications Day to the grassroots, especially to students. He stressed the importance of involving the youth, as they are the future leaders and major users of communication tools, particularly social media.
“The Pope’s message this year calls us to speak with gentleness and hope, even in a world full of chaos and misinformation,” he said. “Social media is a powerful tool, and young people must learn to use it responsibly.” He encouraged students to view the competition as a learning opportunity rather than a rivalry, reminding them: “Every participant is a winner.”
Rev. Fr. Francis Oyegbola, a member of the judging panel, read the competition guidelines, after which the presentations began in earnest.
At the close of the competition, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Ogar, OSJ, announced the results. The winners were:
1st Place – St. Francis Catholic Secondary School, Oyo, 2nd Place – St. Michael Catholic College, Okeho, 3rd Place – Maryland Catholic Grammar School, Ogbomoso, 4th Place – St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School, Iseyin.
Gift presentations followed, led by Rev. Fr. Martin Badejo.
Delivering his closing remarks, Rev. Fr. Badejo applauded all participants for their confidence in addressing an audience of over 500 students. He urged them to remember that “communication is life”, drawing from the biblical account of creation where God spoke all things into existence.
He encouraged the students to always communicate with gentleness, refrain from bullying or aggression, and never underestimate the value of such programs, which could shape their future paths. He also charged the Diocese’s Communication and Education Departments to continue organizing similar initiatives to help students build confidence and unlock their communication potential.
The event concluded with a closing prayer by a student from Maryland Catholic Grammar School, Ogbomoso, and the final blessing by Rev. Fr. Martin Badejo.
-Vincent Obaniyi.
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