The Professor Modupe Arowojolu Quiz Competition; by wits or by mouth?

The 42nd UADS health week gradually approaches. All hands are on deck to give it the splendour and grandeur it deserves. Various committees have been formed across all levels for effective planning of the activities that comprise this august event. One of such activities is the Professor Modupe Arowojolu Quiz competition. Since 3 years ago, when it was renamed after Professor Modupe Arowojolu, an icon in the field of dentistry both home and abroad, the competition has risen to such a pedestal of prestige and honour that makes it enviable among dental students across all levels. As the preliminary stage commences tomorrow, Saturday (02/03/24), the Dentatics press took the initiative to conduct an interview with the current head of the health week quiz committee, Miss Babatunde Mary, a 500L dental student. During the interview she stated "The Prof Arowojolu Quiz Competition has consistently evolved, fostering a dynamic platform for intellectual engagement. I am proud of the competition's progress and anticipate sustained success in promoting academic excellence. I would like to express sincere appreciation to Professor Arowojolu, the esteemed sponsor, for her unwavering dedication and invaluable assistance in supporting the success of the competition."

When asked what to expect in this year's edition, she responded saying, "In light of this year's competition, where cash prizes serve as tokens for commendable efforts, we have identified a historical trend wherein senior classes consistently outshine others. Recognizing that the prevalence of clinical questions places preclinical students at a disadvantage, we have meticulously adjusted the question structure to ensure a more balanced representation. We anticipate enhanced participation and commendable performance across all classes, fostering a more inclusive and rewarding competition experience." Miss Babatunde assured all participants that the competition will be nothing short of fairness and equity." The dentatics press was also informed during the interview that there would be no theme for this year's quiz competition like we had in the previous health week when it was themed 'the battle of Makapualana". The reason for this was not clearly stated. She however sent her warmest regards to all participants, admonishing them to maintain fair play, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. She stressed the importance of adhering to the rules of the competition to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere for all. 

The dentatics press also extended its tentacles to the representative of each class quiz team. Mr Bodunde Blessing Ayomide, the Class Representative of the 100Level(2K26) said,

"Our expectation is to qualify for the final round of the quiz, as a first timer, and also possibly win the quiz. I can't say for sure that we would emerge the winner because we are in the midst of tougher opponents but given the level of preparation 2K26 is putting into this, we surely have a reason to hope for the best. The feeling will be surreal when we finally win and we can only advise our opponents that they pray for miracles and prepare for some tough competition."

Aremu Abass Bolarinwa from the 2k24 class warned ahead that everyone should expect a strong display of knowledge from his class. In his words,

"I see my class as a potential winner. My teammates and I believe in our abilities and we know we can do it. It would be a great feeling winning the quiz. And my teammates and I will put our best effort into making it happen. So, dear opponents, whatever you do, don't sleep on us." 

Dentatics Press also spoke with Mr Patrick Okelue, a member and captain of the UADS 2k23 class quiz (Obsidian) team. He responded saying,

 "as a two-time finalist, we are set to take the step further this year. Expect a full display of wits. I see my class as the winner of this year's edition. We have a formidable team, and we are ready to give it all it takes. It surely would feel surreal to clinch the gold medal and the ₦15,000 prize. I can't wait for that mystery to be unravelled. Our opponents should prepare very well, and hard also, so no other class snatches the 2nd position from them."

Miss Raheemat Olayinka Odetoki, a member of the 500L (2k21) class, a class senator as well as the class' Academic coordinator said,

"The observers should expect my class to demonstrate intellectual engagement, preparedness, teamwork, and confidence in the upcoming quiz competition. In addition, we want the competition to be delightful for all participants and observers.This is a quality we have upheld which has made learning engaging for our class. So, we want to show others how it's done."

When asked if she sees her class emerging the winner, Miss Odetoki answered,

"Definitely! Our rigorous preparation, cohesive teamwork, and exceptional critical thinking skills set us apart. With our unwavering determination and passion for learning, we are willing to go the extra mile to secure victory in the competition. I'm not just imagining. I'm very enthusiastic about the outcome of the competition. It’ll surely be a great feeling when we win because it’s been a long time coming and it is only befitting that the prize be ours. We can't wait to celebrate our victory afterwards."

Miss Odetoki admonishes other classes that knowledge is power, and that they should get ready to feel the electricity! She concluded saying,

 "...may the best brainiac win, but I hope our opponents enjoy the second and third place"

Dentatics press also reached out to final year class which, based on history, usually has the upper hand in competitions such as this. Mr Ayomide Adeyilola from the 2k19 class said,

"We are in to win the quiz competition.This is undoubtedly so because we are 2k19 and winning is part of us. My only advise for our opponents is that they should not bother coming because there is really nothing for them".

With all the intellectual threats and boasts observed during the course of the interview, we believe beyond doubt that this year's quiz might turn out to be tough and unpredictable. As the preliminary stage commences tomorrow, all members of the UADS are admonished to come support their classes as this would motivate the participants to further give it their best. May the best class win!