DAAICF and The Books Headquarters Promote Reading Culture in Obagi and Obite Schools

In its continued commitment to educational development and youth empowerment, the Dr. Andrew A. Igwe Care Foundation (DAAICF), in partnership with The Books Headquarters, embarked on a reading culture advocacy programme for students in Community Secondary School, Obagi, and Government Comprehensive Secondary School (GCSS), Obite on May 24, 2024.

The programme, themed "Embracing Reading Culture for a Better Tomorrow," was designed to inspire students to develop a strong reading habit and appreciate the role of education in shaping a successful future.

The outreach was led by members of the Foundation alongside the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Books Headquarters, Mr. Christian Emelaeka Dapa. The event featured motivational lectures from distinguished guest speakers who encouraged students to embrace learning and academic excellence.

Speaking during the programme, Dr. Evans O. Evans emphasized the importance of reading as a tool for personal growth and social development. He noted that a strong reading culture helps students avoid social vices while projecting themselves, their families, and their communities in a positive light.

Similarly, Dr. Elechee Owhoeke, Director of Administration of DAAICF, encouraged students to view books as powerful instruments of transformation. According to him, reading enriches the mind, broadens perspectives, and positively influences behavior and decision-making.

Addressing students of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) section of GCSS Obite, Mr. Christian Emelaeka Dapa commended the students for their discipline and attentiveness. He urged them to cultivate the habit of reading from an early age, stressing that developing a reading culture during childhood would prepare them for greater academic success and reduce excessive dependence on entertainment and home videos.

In his presentation, Dr. Chukwuemaka Nwokoji Nwokoji expressed concern about the growing impact of social media on students' academic performance. He observed that many young people spend more time on social media platforms than on their studies and advised students to avoid activities capable of distracting them from their educational goals.

He also appealed to parents and guardians to exercise caution when providing smartphones and tablets to children who may not yet possess the maturity and discipline required to use such devices responsibly.

As part of the programme, free novels and exercise books were distributed to students and staff members of the participating schools to encourage reading and academic engagement.

The Principal of GCSS Obite, Sir Obinna Okwu, expressed appreciation to the Foundation and its partner organization for their thoughtful initiative. He described the programme as a unique and impactful intervention driven by genuine concern for the educational development of young people.

In recognition of the Foundation's outstanding contributions to education and community development, the school presented an Award of Honour to the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of DAAICF, Dr. Andrew Igwe.

Receiving the award on behalf of Dr. Igwe, who was unavoidably absent, Dr. Elechee Owhoeke thanked the school management, staff, and students for recognizing the Foundation's efforts in supporting education and youth development.

Following the school outreach, members of the Foundation proceeded to Akabuka for the inspection of the Foundation's ongoing church building project. The team offered prayers of thanksgiving and sought God's guidance, protection, and grace for the successful completion of all ongoing projects.

The day concluded with a birthday celebration in honour of Foundation member Chioma Edith, who marked another year of life. Friends and colleagues gathered to celebrate her, offering gifts, prayers, and words of encouragement.

The Foundation remains committed to promoting education, literacy, and positive values among young people while contributing meaningfully to community development.

To God be all the glory for His guidance, blessings, and faithfulness.

Date: May 24, 2024

Locations: Community Secondary School, Obagi; Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Obite; Akabuka, Rivers State

© DAAICF MEDIA