In a grand gesture marking Governor Umo Eno’s 61st birthday, the Apostle Elijah Jack Foundation (AEJF) has launched an educational support initiative, awarding scholarships to no fewer than 10 outstanding medical students from Onna local government area of Akwa Ibom State.
The event, which featured a series of tributes in reference to the governor’s contributions to education in the state, took place at the Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio hall, Udo Udom’s Avenue, Uyo.
Founder and chairman of the foundation, Apostle Elijah Akpan Jack, said the gesture aligns with the Governor’s ARISE Agenda and his push for accessible quality education across the state.
He said, “We are not just giving out scholarships, but raising future leaders, doctors, medical scientists, and change-makers. The top student among these beneficiaries will be the public ambassador of our foundation, fully equipped to succeed with dignity.”
He listed the benefiaries to include Doreen Akakan Moses, Rose Ekpo, Jackson, Imaobong Ntiense Elijah, Lilian Ufot Akpan, Wisdom Monday Matthew, Danny Gabriel Ekpo, Emediong Akpan Bassey, Akanubong Johnson Ayara, Ima-Obong Christopher Akpan, and Abasiama Ubong Archibong.
In the same vein, Pastor Deborah Jack, secretary of the foundation, described the occasion as a divine opportunity to invest in the future, explaining that “as we honor our Governor, we also water the seeds of future greatness.”
It was learnt the foundation had been engaging in humanitarian work since 2023, including youths’ training programes, mobility aid donations, WAEC and JAMB sponsorships for disadvantaged students.
One of the beneficiaries, Miss Lilian Ufot Akpan, applauded the foundation for easing many medical students’ financial burdens.
“This organisation sees beyond religion, gender, and physical ability. Many students drop out due to fee deadlines, but today, we are hopeful,” she said, pledging to excel academically to make the foundation proud.
