November 17, (THEWILL) – The senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom State, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey, has donated vital educational materials to selected schools to improve academic standards and create more conducive learning environments in the State.
According to him, the gesture, which was powered by his pet project; RHAP-YESS Foundation, is aimed at deepening his avowed commitment to improving education and community development.
The back-to-school empowerment initiative with the theme: “Empowering the Next Generation for a Brighter Future”, which was held in Uyo over the weekend, was supervised by the Project Development Institute (PRODA).
Benefiting schools which were mostly those within the Uyo Senatorial District of the state included Christ the King International School, Brooks Street (Uyo), Government Primary School, Adadia/Ekim Enen (Uruan), St. Luke’s Lutheran School, Ibiaku Itam I (Itu), Atakpo Community Secondary School, Mbiaya-Uruan (Uruan), Salvation Army School, Ekom Iman (Etinan), Itreto Community Secondary School, Ikot Okobo (Nsit Ubium), Community Secondary School, Afia Nsit Urua Nko (Nsit Ibom).
Others are St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Mbikpong Ikot Edim (Ibesikpo Asutan), Secondary Community School, Iwawa Usung Eket (Ibesikpo Asutan), Migrants Secondary School, Ibakang Nsit (Nsit Atai), and Presbyterian School, Mbiabong Edem Edik (Ibiono Ibom).
Educational materials donated were: textbooks, exercise books, school bags, whiteboards, desks, chairs, mathematical sets, laptops, desktop computers, and other classroom essentials.
Speaking at the event, the initiator, Senator Bassey, emphasised that this educational empowerment effort not only complements Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE agenda, but also highlights the critical role of education in shaping a brighter future for the younger generation. He stated, “Investing in education is an investment in the future of our children, our communities, and our nation.”
Represented by Obong Godwin Awah, the Senator assured that through his pet project, he would continue to provide resources to aid learning and inspire students to pursue academic excellence.
Also speaking, Hon. Desmond Etim, coordinator of the back-to-school programme, noted that the donation to Christ the King International School held special significance for Senator Bassey, as the school played a pivotal role in shaping his educational journey.
He further explained that the resources, especially the computers, would enhance teaching and learning while integrating digital literacy into the curriculum.
Hon. Etim added, “The back-to-school drive is expected to benefit thousands of students across Akwa Ibom North-East. It will equip them with essential tools and boost their morale as they embark on another academic year.”
Responding on behalf of benefiting schools, Elder Aniefiok Ekanem, Principal General of Atakpo Community Secondary School, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to Senator Bassey for his benevolence and commitment to the school. He pledged to make good use of the donated items.
The high point of the event was the rendition of songs of gratitude by students and pupils, expressing appreciation for the Senator’s kind gesture.
As the back-to-school drive progresses, students and families across the district can anticipate a more supportive and resourceful educational journey, driven by a vision of a brighter future.
The members of the team included the Senator’s Chief of Staff, Charles Iwatt; RHAB-YESS Foundation Director of Programs, Mr Darlington Udobong; and Legislative Aide to the Senator, Unyime Jonah, among others.
