Resumption for a new academic session received a major boost on Monday for 200 pupils from public primary schools across the four clans of Uyo Local Government Area as they received school bags filled with learning materials and other school essentials through a Back-to-School Outreach organised by the Uyo Local Government Council.

The outreach, held at QIC Government Model Primary School, Oku, was facilitated by the Wife of the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Mrs. Akaninyene Uwemedimo Udo, as part of efforts to support basic education and ease the financial burden associated with school resumption.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Uwemedimo Udo said the initiative was aimed at complementing government efforts in the education sector while ensuring that children, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds, have access to basic learning materials. She noted that preparing children for school often involves heavy calculations, especially for parents with more than one child.

“Even when you feel you’re comfortable, when your children are about to go to school, the calculations you make… you think of buying things in duplicates, in triplicates,” she said. “If you have the opportunity, why don’t you support mothers and fathers to take this burden off their shoulders and know that what they’ll be thinking of is basically their meals to school?”

She appreciated His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, for prioritising education through the ARISE Agenda, noting that the construction of model primary schools across the state reflects the administration's commitment to building a stronger foundation for future generations.

She also thanked her husband, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, Chairman of Uyo Local Government and Chairman of ALGON, Akwa Ibom State, for his consistent support over the years, noting that educational interventions have remained a recurring feature of her office. She recalled previous donations of classroom furniture and outreach visits to 24 schools in the local government area.

According to her, supporting children at the foundational stage of education is critical to shaping responsible and successful citizens. She urged the pupils to make good use of the items provided, remain focused on their studies, and always strive for excellence.

"The first race determines the final race. If you do well in primary school, you will do well in secondary school and beyond. Always give your best and make your teachers proud," she advised.

Earlier, the Headmistress of QIC Government Model Primary School, Oku, Mrs. Eme Bassey, expressed appreciation to the Uyo Local Government Council for selecting the school as host and beneficiary of the programme. She described the intervention as timely and impactful, noting that it would motivate pupils, support parents, and contribute to improved learning outcomes.

"This initiative will go a long way in encouraging our pupils and making their return to school more meaningful. We sincerely appreciate the Executive Chairman and his wife for this kind gesture and their continued interest in the welfare of our children," she said.

Stakeholders who delivered goodwill messages commended Mrs. Uwemedimo Udo for her sustained commitment to education and child development, describing the outreach as a worthwhile investment in the future of the younger generation.

They urged the pupils to remain focused on their studies, obey their teachers, and make good use of the educational materials provided.

Several of the young beneficiaries could not hide their joy. Master Goodnews Effiong said: “I’ve never had this thing before in my life, but I thank everyone of you for giving us this thing. May God bless you in Jesus’ name.” Another beneficiary, Divine Sunday, added: “Thank you, Ma, for these gifts you have presented to us. May the good Lord continue to be with you.”

The outreach is a clear indication of the Uyo Local Government Council’s commitment to promoting access to quality basic education and improving the learning experience of children across the area. Items presented included school bags filled with exercise books and other writing materials. Outstanding pupils received additional items such as lunch boxes, umbrellas, and water bottles, while textbooks were presented to the participating schools for teachers’ use.

Among those present were the Vice Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Hon. Christiana Bassey; Wife of the Vice Chancellor, University of Uyo, Mrs Idaresit Chris Ekong; Wife of the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, Obonganwan Idongesit Sylvanus Okon; Prof. Comfort Usoro; and Mrs Jacinta J.J. Etim, Wife of the former Commissioner for Trade and Investment.

Others included the Director of Social Development, Education, Information, Sports, and Culture, Mr Boniface Otu; the Councillor representing Oku I, Ward 12, Hon. Aniema Ndukeabasi, who led a delegation of female Councillors; Supervisor for Education and Environment, Mr Joseph Nyong; Supervisor for Health, Hon. Praise Otuekong; Special Adviser on Agriculture and Natural Resources, Eno-Obong Okon, and the Women Development Officer of the council, Mrs Enobong Akang