The International Award for Young People Nigeria has celebrated 641 students from government schools in Plateau State at a Bronze Award Presentation Ceremony held in Jos.

It was organised to celebrate the achievements and commitment of young participants who successfully completed the requirements of the Bronze level of the Award.

The milestone marked a significant contribution to youth development across the state and is a proud moment for both the participants and the stakeholders involved.

The Award in Plateau State began with the approval from the Plateau State Ministry of Education in December 2023, following which the Award was officially launched in the state in March 2024, with the successful completion of a New Award Leaders Training.

The delivery of the Award in Plateau is part of The Reach Project, an initiative of the International Award for Young People Nigeria aimed at ensuring more Government Secondary Schools in Nigeria deliver the Award and more groups of young people have the opportunity to participate in the Award Framework.

Out of the eight states where the Reach Project is being implemented in Nigeria, Plateau has set the pace with the support of the State Ministry of Education, Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), and dedicated adult volunteers in the schools.

It is the first state to host an Award presentation ceremony and to have a high number of participants complete the Bronze Award.

A total of 641 participants were celebrated during the Award presentation ceremony held at Government Secondary School, Hwolshe, in Jos and was graced by key education stakeholders.

In attendance was Mrs. Kathleen Nyango Rahab, Director of Schools Plateau State Ministry of Education, who represented the Commissioner for Education.

Other dignitaries included Mr. Yilbuk Albert Stephen, Area Director and focal person for the Award in the Ministry; the Principal of GSS Hwolshe; as well as teachers and Award Leaders from participating schools.

The Awardees showcased the skills they had developed through participating in the Award.

There was also an exhibition of metalwork, including a handcrafted metal stool, as well as hand-made beadwork, wigs, clothing, notebooks, and graphic design works.

Participants also displayed culinary skills by presenting local delicacies such as Abacha and a variety of snacks they learned while participating in the Award.

The exhibition highlighted not only the talents of the participants but also the practical impact of the skills section of the Award.

Participants shared personal testimonies about how the Award has influenced their lives.

Many spoke of increased self-confidence, compassion, improved physical fitness, and stronger team spirit.

The Adventurous Journey section, in particular, stood out for many as they recalled how it helped them understand the value of teamwork and resilience.

In attendance at the ceremony was Mr. Bello Oshoke, National Director of the International Award for Young People Nigeria, who congratulated the Awardees on their resilience and dedication in achieving their goals.

He also emphasised the significance of the Award in supporting both personal growth and career development.