The management of Topfaith Schools in Mkpatak, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has awarded a cash prize of N1.5 million to Master Emmanuel Zekhome, the best-performing student in the 2024 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).

Dr. Emmanuel Abraham, Chairman of Topfaith Schools, announced the prize during a press briefing in Uyo on Tuesday. He explained that the award, instituted to encourage academic excellence, reflects the school’s commitment to recognising and rewarding outstanding student performance.

Dr. Abraham attributed the students’ exceptional performance in this year’s WAEC examinations to a collaborative effort involving teachers, parents, and students. He noted that previous scholars from the school have also received the cash prize, and the management is dedicated to continuing its efforts to promote further academic achievements.

An economist and education expert, Dr. Abraham, reported that out of 193 candidates presented by the school for the 2024 SSCE, the top 40 students achieved higher grades. Among them, three students scored eight ‘A’s each across nine subjects. The next set of nine students achieved seven ‘A’s, while another group earned six ‘A’s. The remaining students scored five ‘A’s, qualifying them for university admission.

“Our philosophy is to always aspire to be on top because our faith is top. This is why we are called ‘TOPFAITH’. With this mindset, we are committed to continuous improvement,” Dr. Abraham said.

He highlighted that this year’s SSCE results showed a significant improvement over the previous year. The first three students achieved eight ‘A’s each with one ‘B’, while the subsequent group of 12 students scored six ‘A’s and three ‘B’s. The rest of the students scored between five and four ‘A’s.

Dr. Abraham emphasised that Topfaith Schools’ students have been intentionally groomed for success and expressed confidence that their performance would stand out in university admissions. He also noted that the University of Calabar’s new grading system for JAMB candidates could further highlight the achievements of Topfaith students.

“Our students’ performance will set them apart in the university admission process. This is the result of our intentional approach to education, blessed by God, activated by our students, and supported by our teachers,” he concluded.