MTN Nigeria, Africa’s largest telecommunications network, has announced Kate Ene as its CEO for a day, following her win in the 2022 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee competition.
The 14-year-old student from Intimacy with Christ Secondary School in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, emerged as the winner among over 11,000 participants who registered for the competition.
In a symbolic handover, Karl Toriola, the outgoing CEO, praised Kate’s brilliance and reiterated the purpose of the initiative. “It has always been our brand commitment to support the government and educational institutions in producing students that are primed for global competitiveness,” he said.
“With that in mind, I am confident that our CEO for a day is on the path to a great future. We are happy to be a part of what promises to be an extraordinary journey.”
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As CEO for the day, Kate has already met with MTN’s executives and members of the media, where she announced key initiatives, including the unveiling of additional mPulse education data bundles.
“The opportunity to be MTN Nigeria’s CEO is a dream come true,” Kate said.
“It means a lot to me that I have made myself, my parents, and my school proud as a young CEO. I am certain that what I have learned here will prepare me for a brighter future.”
In addition to her CEO status, Kate has received a N2.5m scholarship grant, a laptop, smartphone, and an MTN goody bag.
MTN has also presented a N350,000 grant and state-of-the-art ICT devices to her English teacher and school respectively.
Esther Akinnukawe, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Human Resource Officer, appreciated the staff members for their warm hospitality.
“We can all admit that today was significant, especially because of the lasting impact this event will have in the life of Kate and how much of an inspiration it will serve to the young ones out there,” she said.
“At MTN, we believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life, and will continue to provide opportunities that support students to learn and grow.”
The MTN mPulse Spelling Bee is a self-development proposition designed by MTN Nigeria to promote digital literacy and academic excellence and thus empower the nation’s educational sector.
