In commemoration of Professor Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday, the Ile-Ife Reads annual competition kicked off with a vibrant audition at the Conference Centre of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. The event, designed to celebrate and inspire young minds, was a showcase of talent, creativity, and academic excellence. The Theme of the event is Enrich, Educate & Enlighten.

Schools from various regions participated, including OAU Staff School, Divine School, Moremi High School, Sunshine School, and OAU International School, with a total of about 11 schools in attendance.

The competition began with a captivating playlet and spoken word session. During the spoken word segment, two talented girls delivered a powerful rendition of Wole Soyinka’s “Telephone Conversation,” drawing applause from the audience. 

A musical interlude featured two girls singing “I Love My Country” by Wole Soyinka. The event also included an art exhibition by a young student, who showcased works related to the Theme.

The audience collectively sang “I Love My Country” and a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” to honour Professor Wole Soyinka. Additionally, students were invited to recite some of Soyinka’s most famous quotes, reflecting on his profound impact on literature and society.

There was a drum session led by some of the participating students, adding to the festive atmosphere. Before the award presentations, 

Judges were called upon to award the participants who excelled in the essay, drama and other competitions. These winners received certificates and some cash prices recognizing their outstanding performances.

Drama Competition Results:

– **Third Position:** Sunshine Nursery and Primary School

– **Second Position:** Oranmiyan Memorial Grammar School

– **First Position:** OAU Staff School

  – The awards were presented by the Chief Judge of the occasion.

**Other Competition Results:

– **Third Position:** The Author School (specific competition not mentioned)

– **Second Position:** Moremi High School

– **First Position:** Christ Way High School

Essay Competition:

– **Senior Class:**

  Third Position: Number 0107

  – Second Position: Number 0134

  – First Position: Number 0108

– **Junior Class:**

  – Third Position: Number 0076

  – Second Position: Number 0075

  – First Position: Number 0077 (Awarded #20,000)

– **Primary School:**

  – Third Position: Number 0052 (Awarded #5,000)

  – Second Position: Number 0080 (Awarded #15,000)

  – First Position: Number 0084 (Awarded #20,000)

In addition to these awards, every school present at the event went home with book prizes, received by their respective teachers, ensuring that all participants benefited from the competition.