The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Ogulagha Clan has successfully completed its highly anticipated back-to-school initiative, bringing much-needed support and resources to students across the Ogulagha Kingdom.
The program, which kicked off on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, concluded to widespread praise from community members, teachers, and students alike.
This impactful initiative aimed at promoting education and addressing social issues affecting the youth, featured the distribution of school materials, health awareness campaigns, and a strong focus on drug abuse prevention.
Thousands of pupils across 11 schools in the region benefitted from the program, which sought to make a meaningful difference in their academic and personal lives.
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Distribution of Educational and Health Resources
The IYC Ogulagha Clan distributed essential school supplies, including notebooks, pens, pencils, and other writing materials, to support students’ educational needs.
Female students also received sanitary pads, a gesture that highlighted the organization’s commitment to menstrual health and reduced absenteeism among girls.
According to Comrade Louis Ogori, Chairman of the IYC Ogulagha Clan, “The provision of school materials and menstrual hygiene products was our way of ensuring that no child is left behind in their education. These tools will help reduce some of the challenges our students face daily.”
Awareness Campaigns Against Drug Abuse
One of the highlights of the program was the anti-drug abuse campaign, which resonated strongly with the youth.
Ambassadors Ebiowei Opuofemi from the Drug Abuse Awareness and Crime Advocacy group and Endurance Nwachukwu from the Endybekx Initiative for Children & Women Development delivered powerful speeches on the dangers of drug abuse and how it affects young people’s futures.
During his presentation, Ambassador Opuofemi warned about the increasing use of substances such as marijuana and codeine among students, stressing the importance of education and the need for self-discipline.
“Our children are the future, and we can not allow the scourge of drug abuse to take that away from them. We must all take responsibility for protecting their health and dreams,” he said.
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Ambassador Mrs. Nwachukwu complemented this message by addressing the social pressures that lead many young people to drugs.
She emphasized the need for a supportive community that helps steer youth away from destructive behaviour. “Through education, mentorship, and community support, we can fight this menace and create a safer environment for our children,” he stated.
Schools Benefitting from the Initiative
The following schools were the beneficiaries of this wide-reaching initiative:
– Ogulagha Secondary School
– Obuguru Primary School
– Youbebe Primary School
– Okuntu Primary School
– Word of Faith Secondary School, Ogulagha
– Osain Primary School, Osain
– Torubobou Primary School, Ogbotobo 1
– Demeoteide Primary School, Ogbotobo 2
– Fekesei Primary School, Sokebolou
– Sokebolou Secondary School
– Yokiri Primary School
In addition to the core components of the program, students were engaged in interactive sessions where they could ask questions, share their concerns, and gain knowledge on health and social issues affecting them.
Teachers and local leaders expressed their gratitude for the program’s positive impact on the students and the wider community.
Community Reactions and Future Plans
The initiative has received an overwhelming response from the community. Parents and educators were full of praise for the IYC Ogulagha Clan, recognizing the effort as a significant boost to the local education system.
Many parents commented that the distribution of writing materials and menstrual products had alleviated a considerable financial burden, while the drug awareness campaign gave their children valuable life skills.
A local teacher (names withheld) from Ogulagha Secondary School expressed appreciation, saying, “This is the kind of support we have been hoping for.
“The materials and awareness will go a long way in keeping our students focused on their education, and the discussions on drug abuse have opened their eyes to the dangers that are out there,” he said.
Comrade Louis Ogori, in closing remarks, reiterated the IYC’s commitment to continuing efforts to support the kingdom’s youth.
“This is just the beginning. We plan to expand the initiative in the coming years to include more schools, more resources, and even wider community involvement.
“Education is the key to unlocking the future of Ogulagha, and we will not rest until every child in this kingdom has access to the tools they need to succeed.”
The successful execution of the back-to-school initiative reflects the Ijaw Youth Council Ogulagha Clan’s dedication to fostering a brighter future for the next generation through education, health awareness, and community development.
