A non-governmental organisation-run school, Martha’s Dream Academy, Umuzam-Ekenobizi, Umuahia South local government area of Abia State has cried out over lack of accommodation and infrastructure.
Head teacher of the school, Florence Nneoma Obi stated this yesterday during the 2025 graduation ceremony, lamenting that it is currently operating at a temporary site.
She said, “Our presence has attracted the attention of the State Ministry of Education. Were it not free-tuition, the school might have faced closure over the lack of a permanent and approved site.
“Another major hurdle, which we’re appealing for donations, is a bus. Most of the pupils trek long distances to attend school daily. If granted, it will also serve as awareness for our tuition-free-mission.
“Next is our suspended free-feeding programme. Some of the pupils arrive at school without eating which significantly hampers learning. We hope to reinstate it with the help of donours also.
“Since our humble beginning in 2017, we have not recorded a single failure in external examinations. But while we celebrate these triumphs, we must confront the reality of our challenges.”
She expressed profound gratitude to the sponsors of the school, adding that it was only possible
“Because of your generosity and belief in the power of education. Children who once had little or no hope now dream again.”
One of the pioneer pupils of the school who is now set to enter into university, Princess Emmanuel, described the school as a life-transforming place.
“This school gave us more than just education. It gave us hope and a future. The path wasn’t always easy, but your kindness and belief in us pushed us to succeed,” she said.
The head prefect, Rejoice Chidiebere, also shared her excitement and gratitude, thanking the teachers, sponsors and parents “for their support that brought us this far.”
In a comment, the mother of one of the pupils, Onyinyechi Egwu, passionately appealed to the Umuzam-Ekenobizi community to provide a parcel of land for the academy.
“My child could barely read or write before coming here. Now he writes perfectly. The teachers are exceptional. The school is a gift to the community. It needs our support,” she said.
Another parent, Victoria Nnaji, who said she has six children enrolled at the school, echoed the necessity to assist the school to meet its immediate needs.
“The school needs a permanent site. It has become a light to our children and the entire community,” she added and offered prayers for both the sponsors and the coordinators.
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