By Awesome Ekene
A Chinese firm, Zhotian Construction Company has fulfilled the scholarship promise made to 600 secondary students of Igwebuike Grammar School Awka, Anambra State.
Managing Director of the firm, Makoan Tu had during a visit to the school, offered to pay school fees for all SS 1 – 3 students of the school for one academic year.
He explained that the gesture which was part of his firm’s Corporate Social Responsibility, was in support of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s free education programme and other policies aimed at ensuring every child in the state had access to quality education.
Confirming receipt of cheque of N3million from the firm, Principal of the school, Mr. Jovita Arazu appreciated the group for the gesture, particularly for fulfilling the promise within a record time.
He said, “The Manager of the firm, Mr Tu came yesterday during break time with a check of N3million for the beneficiaries.
“The students came out in their numbers to welcome him with songs and dances, while pictures were taken.
“The Senior Prefect who spoke on behalf of others promised they would live up to expectations and won’t let him down. They were happy it would be a relief to their parents.
“Some of the parents have been calling to express their gratitude to both the company and state government.
“We thank Mr. Governor and the Commissioner for Education for facilitating that move. It will go a long way to alleviating the hardship faced by parents and students at this critical time.
“We also want to use this opportunity to call on other well meaning individuals and firms to offer scholarships to indigent students in their various communities.
“There are so many students that need such help. Whatever help that’s given will be appreciated.
“Mr Tu is a gentleman. He made the promise two weeks from the time the discussion started and after the first day he came to see the students, the following day he came with the cheque.
“We’re very happy he fulfilled his promise within a record time.”
Earlier, the state Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngozi Chuma-udeh had thanked Mr. Tu for the offer, and urged students to remain focused and dedicated to their studies.
