The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) became a hub of youthful brilliance and excitement on Saturday as more than 100 schools from across Ondo State converged for the Ondo Central qualifying round of KIDSCON 2026, a children-focused talent and academic development programme.
After a day of intense competition, outstanding performances and impressive displays of creativity, five secondary schools and three primary schools emerged victorious to secure coveted spots in the grand finale scheduled for December.
Great Prints International School emerged first position among the secondary schools, followed by Fiwasaye Grammar School in second place, while Greater Tomorrow Secondary School took third position. Preston International College came fourth, and St. Louis Grammar School placed fifth, with all five schools securing qualification to the grand finale scheduled for December.
In the primary school category, Pathway Primary School emerged first position, followed by Lincoln Montessori School in second place, while Kinder School came third, all earning their places in the final stage of the competition.
Speaking at the event, the Convener of the programme, Mrs. Funmi Bankole, expressed gratitude to God for the success of the event and appreciated the support of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, whose backing she said has contributed significantly to the growth and wider reach of the initiative.
According to her, KIDSCON is an annual platform designed to celebrate children, showcase their talents, and promote moral values and character development among pupils across the state.
She explained that the initiative was created to give children a voice and a sense of recognition, noting that many young talents often go unnoticed despite their potential.
She emphasized that KIDSCON is not only a competition but also a platform for moral instruction and social integration, helping to bridge gaps between children from different social backgrounds.
Mrs. Bankole further noted that while the programme initially held once a year in a single location, it has now been expanded with the support and input of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, to ensure wider participation across all senatorial districts.
She added that the expansion will extend the programme to the remaining two senatorial districts, with special focus on inclusion for schools in hard-to-reach and riverine communities.
According to her, the initiative encourages unity, friendship, and shared learning among pupils while instilling discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
The climax of the event was the presentation of trophies to the winners as well as consolation prizes to winners of raffle draw.
Some of the participating students who later spoke with newsmen expressed appreciation to the organizers for consistently providing a platform that brings joy, encourages creativity, and gives them the opportunity for them to showcase their talents every year.
In a chat, the Principal of Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School, one of the winning school, Mrs. Bolanle Ojoge, further applauded Kidscon while also celebrating excellence for which Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School is known for