UNICROSS, Hope Waddell Grabs Top Prizes in World Environment Essay Competition
By Hannah Arikpo
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) and Hope Waddell Training Institution (HWTI) have emerged as the overall winners in the tertiary and secondary school categories, respectively, of the 2025 World Environment Day essay competition.
UNICROSS secured the first-place prize of N500,000 in the tertiary category, while Hope Waddell took home N300,000 as the top secondary school. The competition, held in celebration of World Environment Day, attracted broad participation from institutions across the state.
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) clinched second place in the tertiary division, earning N300,000, with Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, coming in third and receiving N200,000.
Other notable participants included the University of Education and Entrepreneurship (UEU), Awi Akamkpa; the Eco-Passion group of UNICAL; and the Environment and Climate Change Incubatees of IFAD LIFE-ND.
In the secondary school category, Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC), Calabar, and UNICAL Demonstration Secondary School placed second and third, respectively, outperforming 12 other competing schools.
This year’s theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution Globally,” challenged students to propose innovative, sustainable solutions. Judging criteria included creativity, presentation, appearance, and potential societal impact.
Many submissions highlighted how plastic waste—such as sachets, bottles, cups, and tires—could be scientifically repurposed into useful household items like furniture, decorations, and jewelry, thereby reducing environmental harm while creating economic opportunities.
Highlight of the event included the special recognition for Ofem Jennifer Joseph of Community Secondary School, Anong, Abi LGA. She received a personal cash award of N200,000 from the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi. Moved by her compelling presentation, a judge from the audience also gifted her a new school uniform, bag, and shoes.
