The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, has commended Glisten International Academy for two decades of academic excellence, innovation and commitment to character development.
Mallam Ndace gave the commendation on Saturday in Abuja during the academy’s 20th Anniversary and Cultural Day celebration.
Speaking as a parent of three children enrolled at the school, the VON Director-General said he had a personal appreciation of the institution’s standards and its growth from humble beginnings into a thriving educational community.
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He commended the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the academy, Hajia Samira Jibir, PhD, for her vision and resilience in establishing the school two decades ago and nurturing it into a leading educational brand in the Federal Capital Territory.
The VON Director-General also praised the Principal, Mr Eneh Charles Chibuzor, alongside the management, staff, parents and other stakeholders, for their enduring commitment and dedication.
Mallam Ndace highlighted the school’s investment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, particularly robotics, describing it as a forward-looking initiative that encourages creative thinking, problem-solving and practical skills for a technology-driven world.
He also praised the student leadership system, under which learners campaign and contest for positions such as president and ministers responsible for various portfolios, noting that the system provides practical lessons in elections, democratic participation, accountability and responsible leadership.
According to him, the Cultural Day, which formed part of the anniversary activities, was organised to showcase values, identity, languages and cultural diversity, preserve Nigeria’s rich heritage and promote teamwork, discipline and healthy competition.
He explained that the initiative aligned with the mandate of Voice of Nigeria, which broadcasts in nine languages – English, Hausa, French, Arabic, Fulfulde, Yoruba, Igbo, Kiswahili and Mandarin to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage and project the country’s perspectives to the world.
The anniversary, themed “Empowering Innovation, Strategic Collaboration and Sustainable Solutions for Transformative Growth,” featured colourful cultural performances, including dance, drama, music and displays of traditional attire, as well as student exhibitions on science, technology, arts and enterprise.
The event brought together teachers, parents, alumni and students in what was described as a homecoming to celebrate two decades of impact and unveil the school’s vision for the future.
The VON Director-General congratulated the Glisten community and wished the academy continued growth and greater accomplishments, noting that 20 years was not a finish line but a launchpad for the future.
