Our Ladies of Apostle Secondary School, Yaba, and Atlantic High School, Epetedo, emerged as the best schools in the first and second categories of a competition held during the maiden edition of 'The Integrated Health, Wellness and Education Conference' in Lagos. The event, organised by Global Affairs Magazine, brought together six secondary schools to debate the theme: 'Bridging Health, Wellness and Education for Sustainable National Well-being.'
Debate Categories and Winners
Students in the first category argued the motion: 'The future of healthcare depends more on pharmaceutical innovation than clinical practice – True or False?' In the second category, students debated: 'Health and wellness programmes in schools are underfunded and undervalued – True or False?' At the end of the contest, Our Ladies of Apostle Secondary School and Atlantic High School were declared the two best schools across the categories. Each received a trophy, while the other four participating schools received plaques in recognition of their involvement.
Initiative to Combat Brain Drain
Convener of the conference, Regina Robinson, said the initiative was conceived as a strategic intervention to encourage more Nigerian students to pursue careers in medicine and other specialised healthcare professions. She linked the effort to the growing wave of brain drain affecting the sector. 'This initiative was conceived in response to the increasing migration of medical practitioners and health professionals abroad due to poor remuneration and unfavourable working conditions in Nigeria,' Robinson said. She explained that the conference was deliberately targeted at secondary school students to inspire them to embrace careers in medicine, pharmacy, and specialised healthcare fields. According to her, many students lack proper orientation to opportunities in the health sector, and misconceptions about professions such as pharmacy discourage young people from pursuing them. 'As medical professionals continue to leave the country without encouraging younger ones to replace them, Nigeria will eventually suffer serious brain drain,' she said.
Calls for Government Support
Robinson urged governments at all levels to support similar initiatives and offer scholarships to students interested in studying medicine and other health-related courses. Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Mr Atewologun Titofunm, told the gathering that education must prepare students for life, not just for examinations. He said students must also understand how to manage stress, seek help, and make responsible choices.
Guest Speakers Emphasise Health Education
Guest Speaker and Chief Executive Officer of Netherlands International Business School, Prof Lere Baale, reminded the students that they are shaped to excel in education and health-related courses. The Chief Executive Officer of Dayspring Specialist Hospital, Dr Samuel Adebayo, said the conference's purpose was to build a bridge across the healthcare system, especially for younger people. Founder and Chairman of Jawa Group, Chief Varkey Verghese, said guidance on health and wellness would help students shape their future and careers, while equipping them with the tools to serve their community in the years ahead.
