The Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, has flagged off the distribution of free notebooks and other writing materials to pupils in 43 public primary schools across the council area.
The flag-off ceremony, held on Thursday at the council secretariat in Ozoro, is part of the local government’s intervention to support pupils and strengthen teaching and learning in public primary schools across Isoko North.
Speaking at the event, Ogorugba urged the pupils to make proper use of the materials, describing education as a critical foundation for personal development and the advancement of society.
He encouraged the pupils to take their studies seriously, remain disciplined and pay close attention to their teachers. According to him, the provision of free learning materials is designed to ensure that a lack of basic educational resources does not stand in the way of the children’s academic development.
“I want to sincerely encourage all of you, our dear pupils, to make very good use of these books and other learning materials that have been provided for you. Do not see them as ordinary gifts; see them as tools that will help you build your future,” Ogorugba said.
He urged the pupils to respect their parents, guardians, teachers and elders, while maintaining discipline both at school and at home.
The chairman further challenged the children to dream big and remain committed to their education, noting that some of them could grow to become professors, doctors, engineers, lawyers, teachers, scientists, administrators and leaders.
“Our desire is to see every one of you grow into responsible and successful citizens who will contribute positively to the development of Isoko North, Delta State, Nigeria and humanity at large,” he said.
Ogorugba also prayed for the success, good health and fulfilment of the pupils’ aspirations, urging them not to allow their present circumstances to limit their dreams.
He assured the children that the council administration would continue to support schools and educational initiatives within its available resources.
“As a council administration, we will continue to do our best within the available resources to support our schools and our children because they are the future of our communities. We want to see a generation of well-educated, responsible and productive young people who will make Isoko North proud,” he added.
The council chairman subsequently directed teachers and school authorities to ensure that the materials reached the intended beneficiaries and were used strictly for educational purposes.