Education is More Than Certificates – Bishop Mike Okonkwo 

Bishop Mike Okonkwo

Bishop Mike Okonkwo, founder of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), has stressed that education goes beyond just obtaining certificates. He believes that students must also acquire practical skills that can improve their lives and communities. Speaking at the 23rd Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, Okonkwo expressed concerns about Nigeria’s education system. He criticized the government’s handling of the sector, stating that it seems as if they are intentionally making it difficult for it to progress. 

The Need for Practical Skills 

Bishop Okonkwo advised students to gain real-world skills that can help them succeed beyond the classroom. According to him, “Education is more than just having certificates. People should have tangible skills that can help sustain their lives positively. Okonkwo also talked about the moral decline in society, urging young people to become agents of positive change. He encouraged them to make good decisions and always strive to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. 

Essay Competition Winners 

As part of the event, the winners of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Essay Competition were recognized. The top three students were: 

• Miss Flourish Olaoye from Christ the King International School, who won N500,000, a trophy, a plaque, and a set of computers for her school. 

• Miss Femi-Lawal Nora from Chrisland High School, who won N250,000, a plaque, and a computer for her school. 

• Miss Olayinka Esther Durotimi from Corona Secondary School, who won N150,000, a plaque, and a computer for her school. 

Four other students received consolation prizes of N50,000 each. Bishop Okonkwo’s message was clear: education must include both academic learning and practical life skills to truly make a difference. 

Education is more than just having certificates. People should have tangible skills that can help sustain their lives positively.” – Bishop Mike Okonkwo 

Bishop Mike Okonkwo’s message highlights the importance of blending academic knowledge with practical skills in today’s world. He urges students to focus not just on obtaining certificates but also on acquiring valuable life skills that can make a real difference. By encouraging young people to be agents of positive change, he emphasizes the need for both moral and intellectual development to build a better society.