From INIOBONG SUNDAY, Uyo
As part of activities marking Governor Umo Eno’s 61st birthday celebrations, Apostle Elijah Jack Foundation, AEJF, has launched an educational support initiative, awarding scholarships to no fewer than 10 outstanding medical students from Onna local government area of Akwa Ibom State.
The event, which featured series of tributes in reference to the Governor’s contributions to education in the State, took place at the Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio hall, Udo Udom’s Avenue, Uyo.
Founder and chairman of the foundation, Apostle, Elijah Akpan Jack, said the gesture aligns with the Governor’s ARISE Agenda and his push for accessible quality education across the State.
He said: “We are not just giving out scholarships, but raising future leaders, doctors, medical scientists, and change-makers. The top student among these beneficiaries will be the public ambassador of our foundation, fully equipped to succeed with dignity”.
He listed the beneficiaries to include Doreen Akakan Moses, Rose Ekpo, Jackson, Imaobong Ntiense Elijah, Lilian Ufot Akpan, Wisdom Monday Matthew, Danny Gabriel Ekpo, Emediong Akpan Bassey, Akanubong Johnson Ayara, Ima-Obong Christopher Akpan, and Abasiama Ubong Archibong.
In the same vein, Pastor Deborah Jack, Secretary of the Foundation, described the occasion as a divine opportunity to invest in the future, explaining that “as we honor our Governor, we also water the seeds of future greatness”.
It was learnt the Foundation had been engaging in humanitarian work since 2023, including youths’ training programmes, mobility aid donations, WAEC and JAMB sponsorships for disadvantaged students.
One of the beneficiaries, Miss Lilian Ufot Akpan, applauded the Foundation for easing the financial burden many medical students face.
“This organisation sees beyond religion, gender, and physical ability. Many students drop out due to fee deadlines, but today, we are hopeful”, she said, pledging to excel academically to make the Foundation proud.
However, the Foundation has called on philanthropists and corporate bodies to support its vision of ensuring every village in Akwa Ibom has access to qualified medical personnel, urging parents to ensure no student was forced to abandon their dreams due to financial constraints.
Among those who applauded the gesture included the former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Oniong East Ward 2, Mr Samuel Mboso; Apostle Alexander Samuel and the President, Onna Students Worldwide, Prince Roland Uttah and others.
