Wife of Abia State governor, Pricillia Otti and the Renewed Hope Initiative, the pet project of the wife of the president, Oluremi Tinubu, have donated 110,000 exercise books to pupils and students in the state.
At the event in Umuahia, the state capital, Mrs Otti said the gesture is to enhance learning outcomes and support the academic journey of the beneficiaries especially at the basic education level.
She said the first lady is passionate about the future of the youths and women and had through the project given hope, succour and transformed millions of lives through diverse means.
“As the mother of our dear nation, she is passionate about the empowerment of women, girls and children, including pupils and students of our prestigious institutions of learning.
“Each beneficiary is expected to receive at least six as a palliative support, and does not replace the responsibility of parents and guardians to provide learning materials for their wards.
“These books will provide a space for you to take notes, record assignments, and track progress. They will help you organize your work and prioritize academic tasks.
“Research shows that writing down notes enhances the processing and retention of information. I cannot overemphasize the importance of these exercise books. We will ensure it gets to every child,” she stated.
The state commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Goodluck Ubochi said the gesture would strengthen the standard of education in the state.
“The governor, has not only made education free at the basic level, but has also provided the enabling environment, resources and adequate welfare of the teachers,” he explained.
Similarly, the commissioner for Youths and Women Affairs, Moreen Ahukwa, who noted the importance of education in the society, commended Mrs Tinubu for the aids.
Earlier, the chairperson of the State Basic Education Board, Lilian Onuoha, observed that the event marked a defining point in the education sector of the state and lauded the assistance.
Responding on behalf of other beneficiaries, Oluchi Emecheta, thanked both Mrs Tinubu and Mrs Otti for the gifts, adding that the donation had given them hope and sense of belonging.