Otu's Commissioner Facilitates Basic Education At Holy Cross Catholic School, Ugep ... Awards Six Year Scholarship For Learners
Hannah ARIKPO
Cross River Governor Bassey Edet Otu's Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Hon Oden Ewa has facilitated a six year scholarship programme for all Learners of Holy Cross Catholic school in Ugep, Yakurr local government area.
The Scholarship, through his 'Oden Ewa Foundation' was announced following the impressive performance of the pupils during the school’s annual graduation ceremony, thus inspiring the benevolent gesture.
The Commissioner emphasised the importance of investing in the education of children, saying, "Children are the seeds that determine the forest of tomorrow, just as the flowers of the future lie in the seeds of today, so the adults of tomorrow are found in the children before us."
He stressed society’s responsibility to nurture young minds and create an enabling environment for them to thrive pointing out that, the talents displayed by the children reveals immense potentials that, when properly harnessed, would contribute meaningfully to societal development, hence the need for his support.
The Head Teacher of School, Rev. Father John Oyenekpe, who was filled with emotions stated that the Commissioner's gesture has further demonstrated his heart for humanity and strife for community development because the gesture is not only a relief to parents but also to the school.
“Many times, we face the dilemma of either sending children home for unpaid fees or just keep them, in view of the economic situation in the Country. Most at times, parents could not pay fees for nearly three terms which has caused the school to always run at deficit," Oyenekpe disclosed.
In different responses,
parents share their excitement as they heard the educational needs of their Wards have been settled.
Mr. Alex Iwara, who has two children in the school, explained that the scholarship had lifted a heavy burden off his shoulders. "this term requires compulsory purchase of textbooks, all of which were equally covered by the scholarship."
Another Respondent, Bro. Theophilus Okwonkwo (KSM), stated that the intervention had motivated his children to sit up academically, adding that the impact on his family was “immeasurable.”
The children themselves expressed heartfelt gratitude to God and extended their sincere thanks to Commissioner Oden Ewa and the CEO of the Oden Ewa Foundation for such a heart of generosity and goodwill. They acknowledged that this support would significantly empower the upcoming generation, inspiring them to excel academically and contribute positively to society.
The atmosphere at Holy Cross School remained charged with gratitude as the community celebrated what many described as a rare act of compassion and visionary leadership; an investment not just in pupils but in the future of the entire community.
