The NYSC Osun State Co-ordinator, Mrs. Winifred Shokpeka, has charged the 202l Batch C Stream 1 corps members to always be proud to showcase the beauty of their various cultures for the world to see as our strength lies in our diversity.

She stated that as Nigerians we must learn to harness and celebrate the strength in our diversity in other to forge a healthy integration and oneness among all. She said we can only be one if we learn to accept and appreciate our differences while seeking to identify the similarities that binds us together.

She further stated during the flag off of the Cultural Carnival for the Batch at the NYSC Osun State Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede, on Saturday, that this is among the many reasons why the NYSC had incorporated the Carnival into the Orientation program so that diverse cultures in the country can be displayed to the admiration and appreciation of all.

According to Mrs. Shokpeka, the Carnival is designed to showcase the beauty of our richly-blessed cultures and traditional heritage, which should be done amidst pomp and glamour.

She urged the corps members to imbibe the COVID-19 health protocols in all they do as they relax, have fun, and enjoy themselves.

Earlier, the Head of the Man 'O' War, Mr. Adebayo Oluwatuyi informed the corps members that the Carnival was a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we ought to co-exist harmoniously as a nation constituted by culturally-different people.

He charged the youths to leverage on the colorful display of our national unity created to fill the gap of the hitherto Man 'O' War Endurance Trek, and learn to make peace with one another as Nigerians first before anything else.

The event featured an opening dance procession by top NYSC officials, platoons, and special units such as the OBS, Red Cross, SERVICOM, and Health dept.

The trio of Mr. Yusuf Abiodun, Mr. Ayoola Ademola, and Mrs. Janet adjudged the inter-platoon cultural presentations that saw Platoons 10, 9, 8 & 1 emerge 1st - 4th winners in that order. Platoon 10 distinguished itself so much so that it got awarded as the most unique platoon.

The event also featured special presentation of a beautiful portrait of the State Coordinator by corps members and also cutting of birthday cake by birthday celebrants courtesy of the State Coordinator.