Nkechinyere Ewa Okparas
In continuation of its educational support program, the Mbam Stanley Labechi Foundation (MSL Foundation) has covered the West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for 109 underprivileged students from the three local government areas that make up the Izzi clan in the Ebonyi North senatorial zone of Ebonyi State.
Stanley Lebechi Mbam, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Works and chairman of the foundation stated that this initiative aims to improve literacy and alleviate the challenges faced by these students and their families, most of whom are financially disadvantaged.
Among the beneficiaries are visually impaired students from the School of the Blind in Opefia, as well as other needy students from the clan.
The MSL Foundation presented cash to the students in Abakaliki, with their parents and guardians in attendance.
Mbam encouraged the students to proceed to their various schools on Monday, February 24, for registration.
He emphasized that the Izzi clan is lagging in terms of education within the state, which prompted him to focus on educational initiatives. He described education as a vital tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and unlocking the potential of individuals and communities.
He promised that any student who achieved good results in the examination would receive a university scholarship. Additionally, he advised parents to avoid pressuring their children in a society that often seeks quick rewards.
Mbam expressed gratitude to school principals, deans, teachers, and all educational stakeholders for their contributions to shaping future generations. He assured the community that he would continue to work diligently to ensure no one is left educationally disadvantaged.
He also commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for giving him the platform to serve as Commissioner and promised to make a positive impact through his position.
Oliver Nwachukwu, chairman of the committee that selected the beneficiaries, described the initiative as a rare opportunity and urged the students to take full advantage of it.
He encouraged the students to study hard for the examination and make the Commissioner proud of their results.
Nwachukwu also urged parents to supervise their children in this era of social media, where negative influences can detract from their education.
Godfrey Chikwere, a Committee member explained that the beneficiaries were chosen based on merit after taking an examination.
He noted that the committee allocated about 25% of the support to persons with disabilities to ensure equal opportunity and transparency in the selection process.
Williams Enyi, a visually impaired who was among the students, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for his humanitarian efforts and assured that they would strive to make him, their families, and Ebonyi State proud.