To deepen his avowed commitment to education and community development, Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, has, through his pet project, the RHAB-YESS Foundation, donated vital educational materials to selected schools in the senatorial district to improve academic standards and create more conducive learning environments.
The back-to-school empowerment initiative, supervised by the Project Development Institute (PRODA), was themed “Empowering the Next Generation for a Brighter Future.” The event was held on Thursday, November 14, and Friday, November 15, 2024.
Benefiting schools 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), 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).
Among the donated educational materials were textbooks, exercise books, school bags, whiteboards, desks, chairs, mathematical sets, laptops, desktop computers, and other classroom essentials.
In his remarks, Senator Bassey, represented by Obong Godwin Awah, emphasized 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.”
The Senator assured that, through his pet project, he would continue providing resources to aid learning and inspire students to pursue academic excellence.
Also speaking, Hon. Desmond Etim, coordinator of the back-to-school program, 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.”
In response, 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.
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.
Media Unit
Office of the Senator
Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District
