…donates learning materials to students
A philanthropic organization, Obong Utuk Bassey Nkanga Foundation (OUBN) has solicited support and patronage of public schools in Akwa Ibom State, noting that it is only government-owned schools that engage the most qualified and trained teachers.
To this end, the Foundation, during its 14th edition of Back-to-School Initiative, last Sunday, donated books and other learning materials to students in five secondary schools in Ikono Ibom Clan in Uyo and neighbouring local governments.
Speaking during the exercise, president of the Foundation, Obong Utuk Bassey Nkanga, said the exercise was designed to complement the free and compulsory education policy of the state government as well as support to less-privileged parents in the community.
He however agreed that there are qualified teachers in some private schools, but stressed that government schools employ through open contests and are run with well developed curricula and pedagogical technology, hence, the need to patronize them.
The retired director, Health, Safety and Environment, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority, charged the beneficiaries to use the learning materials judiciously and to remain good ambassadors of their families and society.
On why the gesture does not cover the primary schools, he said the Foundation deliberately delays the donation to ascertain pupils in the public school when they are in session.
On his motivation, he said the initiative is fired by his passion for community service.
“…I take pleasure in helping people, not because I have so much, but because I want to give back to society,” he said.
Addressing the excited students, village head of Ikot Ofon Ikono, Eteidung Polycarp Udoudo, poured encomiums and lavished praises on Obong Nkanga, describing him as a light in the community.
While charging the beneficiaries to avail themselves of the opportunity, he prayed to God for continued blessings, guidance and divine protection for the Foundation.
