A renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur, Prince Sam Ukut, has commended the state governor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno for his determined efforts to revamp public schools across the state, transforming them into citadels of excellence.
Ukut made this known in the company of his wife, Rita, during the donation of hundreds of essential educational materials to pupils in Methodist Primary School Ikot Abia Idem/ Ikot Enwang, Ikot Ekpene on September 24, 2024.
According to him, “the governor has made remarkable investment in repositioning public schools across the state to attain academic excellence.
“In addition to investing heavily in infrastructure, government is boosting the morale of teachers by prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements especially clearing backlog of retirement benefits of retired primary school teachers.
“However, state government alone cannot provide everything always hence the need for privileged individuals and corporate bodies in various communities to support the drive to educate our future generation”.
“Education is the bedrock of development,” Mr. Ukut emphasized. “I’m therefore honored to contribute to the growth of these young minds, fostering a brighter future for Ikot Abia Idem/Ikot Enwang and Akwa Ibom state in general.”
In her remarks while presenting the materials on behalf of the initiative, Mrs. Rita Ukut, pointed out that “the 2024 edition of Prince Sam Ukut’s Back-to-school Initiative, which is the sixth in a series of generous gestures, was focused on cushioning the impact of economic downturn on parents”.
“Furthermore, the initiative seeks to spread joy and hope among pupils as well as give succour to less privileged in support of the ARISE AGENDA policy thrust of the state governor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno”. She stated.
Some essential educational materials presented to pupils in the school include 300 school bags, 300 pairs of scandals, customized exercise books and stationeries.
Also, the Prince Sam Ukut Back-to-school Initiative donated the sum of three hundred thousand (N300,000) Naira in cash as financial support to teachers. Three best performing pupil went home with cash prizes too.
Meanwhile, the philanthropist paid for medical bills for an ailing pupil, bringing smiles to faces and renewed enthusiasm for learning.
In his remarks, the visibly elated Headmaster, Mr Malachi M. Idio, thanked Prince Ukut and wife for their kindness which resonates deeply within the school, community and reflects their commitment to empowering future generations.
Also speaking, the School Base Management Committee Chairman, Elder Chief Effiong Inyang Udo (JP), thanked the couple for the gesture.
He praised the Ukut family’s selfless act, acknowledging its positive impact on both the school and community.
Highpoint of the ceremony was when teachers and pupils poured encomiums and heartfelt prayers the donor.
