Businessman and philanthropist, Elder Acho Nonyalim, has distributed thousands of educational materials to pupils and students in Isieke, Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, as part of efforts to support families ahead of the new academic session.
The intervention was carried out under the JUNIUC Back-to-School Empowerment Programme, through which Nonyalim provided more than 10,000 exercise books, 5,000 textbooks and writing pens to about 500 primary and secondary school pupils and students.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, Nonyalim said the initiative was designed to ensure that financial difficulties do not prevent children from accessing basic educational materials.
He described education as one of the most effective tools for transforming society and empowering future generations.
“The true worth of a person is reflected in how he treats those who are in need. Those of us who are blessed with resources must share with others and help bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. Education remains the key to a better future, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn.”
Nonyalim explained that the annual intervention has been sustained for more than a decade, adding that it was inspired by his desire to support less-privileged children and reduce the financial burden on parents preparing their wards for a new academic session.
According to him, his support for education extends beyond the distribution of books and writing materials, as he has also assisted school dropouts, provided scholarships to indigent students and supported vulnerable children, including orphans, to continue their education.
The philanthropist urged the Delta State Government to continue promoting reading culture and educational development in public schools.
He also called on wealthy individuals, corporate organisations and non-governmental organisations to invest more in education and youth development, stressing that the future of communities depends largely on the quality of education available to their children.
Nonyalim said the initiative was established not only to provide educational materials but also to strengthen communities through education, empowerment and meaningful engagement of young people.
He expressed appreciation to members of his family, friends and associates who contributed to the success of this year’s programme, promising to sustain the project for as long as he has the resources and opportunity to do so.
Beneficiaries, parents and community members commended the gesture, describing it as a timely intervention that would help ease the financial pressure associated with school resumption.
They said the annual programme has become a source of support for hundreds of families in Ibusa and has helped promote access to educational resources within the community.
The JUNIUC Back-to-School Empowerment Programme has, over the years, continued to provide educational support to children in Ibusa, reinforcing Nonyalim’s stated commitment to education and human capital development.
