Faces Of Those Who Made Champions At The Itu ARISE Quiz Competition (Part Two)

By Saviour Ekpe, Ph.D.

Behind every outstanding academic triumph are dedicated mentors whose quiet sacrifices, passion and professionalism shape young minds for excellence. The success story of the Itu ARISE Quiz Competition also branded, “The Brainwave,” is no exception. Beyond the brilliant students who took to the stage, a team of seasoned educators and strategic planners worked tirelessly to prepare, guide and inspire the champions who proudly represented West Itam Secondary School in Itu Local Government Area and Akwa Ibom State.

One of the outstanding pillars of this academic victory is Mrs. Mfreke Dennis Ekpatt, Head of the Languages Department at West Itam Secondary School. A consummate educationist with strong academic credentials. Mrs. Ekpatt holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from the University of Uyo as well as a PGDE from the National Teachers’ Institute affiliated to the University of Port Harcourt. She earned her B.A. (Hons.) in English (Second Class Upper) from the University of Uyo. Hails from Itu Andem village n Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area.

Her teaching career reflects versatility and widespread service. Over the years, she has taught in Kudan Local Government Area, Kaduna State, and in several schools in Akwa Ibom State in Eket, Ikono and Itu LGAs. Her wealth of experience in language development and student mentorship has contributed immensely to sharpening communication skills, analytical thinking and confidence among learners — qualities crucial for competitive academic events such as the ARISE Quiz.

Equally instrumental to the success of the team is Elder Godwin Okon, Chemistry teacher at West Itam Secondary School who doubles as quiz master in same school. A product of the University of Uyo, where he obtained his B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry and the Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto where he earned a PGDE (Post Graduate Diploma in Education). Elder Okon combines academic knowledge with classroom excellence. His practical teaching style and emphasis on conceptual clarity helped equip students with strong scientific foundations, enabling them to face rigorous quiz questions with confidence.

Another towering figure in this success narrative is Mr. Inemesit Etuk, Physics teacher at West Itam Secondary School, whose credentials, national and international exposure speak volumes. Mr. Etuk served as Facilitator for the First Prize–winning Science Project team representing Akwa Ibom State at the 2019 National Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Conference in Kano State. He also distinguished himself as Teacher-Facilitator for Team Nigeria at the Korea Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF) in South Korea, where the Nigerian contingent competed at an international level in the Science Project category in 2019.

Between 2019 and 2022, Mr. Etuk functioned as Sub-Zonal Coordinator for the Arena for Contest in Science, Engineering and Mathematics (ACSEM), overseeing project programmes across Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. His commitment to continuous professional growth earned him participation in the Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (2024) at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, USA, where he joined educators from around the world for professional development and cultural exchange.

Significantly, Mr. Etuk is the Progenitor and Coordinator of the ARISE Quiz “The Brainwave” (2025) — the very platform that has become a beacon of intellectual discuss,  engagement and scholastic competition among secondary school students in Itu local government area. His vision transformed an idea into a reputable academic contest that celebrates brilliance, innovation and teamwork. Beyond the school-based facilitators, the success of the ARISE Quiz Competition was strengthened by a circle of accomplished planners and supporters.

Leading the coordination team was the International President of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Akparawa James Edet, whose leadership and organizational support added prestige and structure to the event. The vibrant delivery of the competition was guided by renowned quiz master, Idy James, whose professionalism ensured fairness, excitement and strict adherence to standards.

Also playing a strategic role was the Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. George Akpan, alongside other committed stakeholders who provided administrative backing, logistics and encouragement that ensured the smooth execution of the competition.

Indeed, the story of the Itu ARISE Quiz Competition is not solely one of student brilliance; it is equally a testament to the dedication of teachers, coordinators, administrators and community leaders who believe that investment in education remains the strongest pathway to societal transformation.

As this second edition of “Faces of Those Who Made Champions” highlights, the success recorded at the ARISE Quiz stands as a collective triumph — a celebration of educators who nurture young minds, innovators who create academic platforms and leaders who champion educational excellence across Itu Local Government Area and Akwa Ibom State at large.