Nigerian Mother Slams School for Introducing ‘Tallest Female’ Award in Classroom

 

A Nigerian mother has sparked conversation online after expressing shock at a school’s decision to present an award for the "Tallest Female Student" during a recent prize-giving ceremony.

In a video shared on social media, the visibly bewildered woman questioned the logic behind such a category, asking why physical attributes like height were being recognized in an academic setting.

“Does this award even make sense? An excellence award for being the tallest in class? Who approves these things? Are there no regulators overseeing what private schools are doing? These awards need to be scrutinized because I honestly don’t understand what’s going on,” she said.

The woman didn’t hold back as she continued, raising concerns about what message such awards send to other students.
“So what about the shorter student in the class? Should they feel less? This is completely unnecessary and makes no sense,” she added.

Beyond the award itself, she used the opportunity to address a broader issue—unrealistic parental expectations. Recalling an incident at the event, she said:
“There was a mother visibly upset with her child for not winning an award. I had to ask myself, why do some parents behave like their entire self-worth depends on whether or not their child brings home a plaque?”

While she emphasized the importance of recognizing academic excellence, she cautioned against placing undue pressure on children.

“Of course, I applaud outstanding students who work hard and earn their awards—but let’s not forget, awards aren’t everything. A child who shows up every day, learns, grows, stays kind and curious—that child is doing excellently too.”

She concluded with a heartfelt message to fellow parents:
“Your worth as a parent isn’t tied to how many certificates your child brings home. Don’t reduce your child’s value to a piece of cardboard. Focus on growth, not just glory. Build their character, not just their trophy shelf. Because in real life, there are no plaques for every good deed. Learn to celebrate your child beyond awards.”