The Nigeria and Africa Chapters of the Rural Women Studies Association are delighted to share the successful implementation of the RWSA Inter-School Storytelling Competition, an initiative designed to inspire secondary school students to discover, celebrate, and amplify the stories of extraordinary women whose contributions have transformed families, communities, and nations but often remain unrecognized.
On July 23, 2026, the competition brought together students from secondary schools in Ogun State, Nigeria, who passionately narrated the lives and achievements of remarkable women through creative storytelling. The event provided a platform for young people to develop confidence, public speaking skills, leadership qualities, and a deeper appreciation of women’s contributions to society.
Beyond the competition itself, the programme created meaningful conversations around women’s leadership, resilience, education, gender equality, and social inclusion. The performances demonstrated that storytelling remains a powerful tool for preserving history, inspiring future generations, and promoting positive social change.
The event featured distinguished guests from the traditional institutions, government, academia, civil society, and the education sector, alongside teachers, parents, community leaders, and development partners. Their presence reinforced the importance of investing in young people while celebrating women whose achievements continue to shape society.
One of the highlights of the event was the outstanding creativity displayed by the participating students. Their performances reflected extensive research, originality, confidence, and a genuine commitment to honouring women whose stories deserve wider recognition. The competition also strengthened collaboration between schools, communities, and stakeholders committed to advancing girls’ education and women’s empowerment.
The programme generated significant public interest and received extensive media coverage across multiple news platforms, further amplifying the mission and visibility of RWSA.
Media Coverage
- The Alternative News – RWSA: Young Voices Celebrate Unsung Women Through Storytelling
http://www.thealternativenews004.com/2026/07/rwsa-young-voices-celebrate-unsung_01829023697.html - Hot Secret Naija – RWSA: Young Voices Celebrate Unsung Women Through Storytelling
https://www.hotsecretnaija.com.ng/2026/07/rwsa-young-voices-celebrate-unsung_0844051235.html - EduNRight News – RWSA Celebrates Unsung Women Through Schools Storytelling Competition
https://edunrightnews.ng/2026/07/24/rwsa-celebrates-unsung-women-through-schools-storytelling-competition/ - Boiling Point Nigeria – RWSA: Young Voices Celebrate Unsung Women Through Storytelling
https://www.boilingpointng.com/rwsa-young-voices-celebrate-unsung-women-through-storytelling/ - Facebook Coverage:
The Nigeria and Africa Chapters remain committed to advancing the vision and mission of the Rural Women Studies Association through innovative programmes that empower young people, celebrate women’s achievements, and promote gender equality.
Prof. Olubunmi Rufina Ashimolowo
President, Rural Women Studies Association (RWSA), Nigeria Chapter
Africa Chapter Representative
Note: The above news release was condensed from a more comprehensive report provided by Prof. Olubunmi Rufina Ashimolowo. RWSA congratulates the organizers of this event on its success!
