Jacob Ogodo Abakaliki
National Association of Seadogs, Pirates Confraternity (NAS-PC), has donated 5G internet broadband equipment worth over ₦600,000 to the Ebonyi State Government.
The 5G internet will enhance learning and internet access in the proposed 49 state government smart schools across the 13 local government areas of the state.
Presenting the equipment to the State Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Dr. Donatus Illang, the Area Mate 8(Regional President, South East), Mr. Joe Mazeli, said the devices would enable students in smart schools and other government-owned schools to access global information and participate in various online learning activities.
“We are here this morning to donate a small token of broadband internet devices to the state government through your office. We believe that this will go a long way in helping our children, whether in smart schools or conventional secondary schools, to stay updated with information, as the whole world is increasingly moving towards digital technology.
“Even the examinations our children take these days depend on internet availability. So, that is basically what we have come to do, and we believe that the devices will be of great benefit to the state government.”
Mr. Mazeli, who described schoolchildren as the leaders of tomorrow, commended the state government, particularly Dr. Illang, for its laudable initiatives aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of education in the state.
He said the association was proud of the achievements recorded so far by the Ministry of Education and pledged its continued support and commitment to the state government.
“By every measure, the ministry has done well. We are here to pledge our support for your office and to let you know that we are open to collaboration.
“JAMB and WAEC examinations are fast approaching, and our children will soon begin their examinations. We are here to support them in achieving greater success.
“We appreciate what you have done. As an association, we believe we can do more through your office. Please let us know how else we can support the administration.
“We also want to commend the smart school initiative of the state governor. It is a significant achievement and another positive addition to the many laudable projects he has embarked upon. We applaud and recognise this initiative.”
Responding, the State Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Dr. Donatus Illang, commended the association for donating the 5G broadband devices, which he said would enhance the functionality of smart schools in Ebonyi State.
Dr. Illang described the 5G broadband devices as valuable tools for improving internet connectivity, particularly in areas with poor network coverage. He disclosed that the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru had procured 989 smart boards for deployment in the 49 smart schools being developed by his administration.
He explained that the smart school system, with its institutionalised components, would facilitate access to various electronic learning platforms, including e-laboratories, e-classrooms and e-libraries. He added that the initiative was designed to transform the existing educational system and improve teaching and learning outcomes.
Dr. Illang further commended the governor’s investments in education at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels. He described the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology in Oferekpe and the proposed Aeronautics University in Onueke as institutions designed to meet international standards.
He said, “Let me commend NAS for remembering to invest in the education sector in the state. The 5G broadband devices will go a long way in enhancing our smart schools and ensuring access to internet connectivity, especially in rural areas.”
Also speaking, the Capoon of Aqua Saporita Deck, Mr. Kingsley Tanyi, said the association had consistently demonstrated its commitment to community service and humanitarian activities. He noted that the donation was one of several contributions the association had made to the state government and the Ministry of Education.
“Looking at what Governor Francis Nwifuru has done in the education sector, his efforts are highly commendable. He is investing significantly in the future of our children, who are the leaders of tomorrow. We therefore decided to contribute our quota through our Area Mate 8.
“Earlier this year, the association awarded scholarships to 30 selected students from different secondary schools across the state. The selection covered the entire state. We have done this in the past, and we are here again to contribute to the well-being of our students.
“I am sure we will be back soon to continue our support for humanity. Beyond our contributions to the education sector, the association has also made significant interventions in healthcare and water supply.
“The association has, on several occasions, conducted medical outreaches at St. Vincent de Paul in Abakaliki and provided a borehole for the home, which accommodates elderly people.”
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote education, healthcare, water supply and the general well-being of the people of Ebonyi State.
For a better society
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