The Abia State Government has promised to work with credible civil society organisations and other development groups to improve education, skills training, youth leadership and community development in the state.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Chinedu Ubochi, made this known during the official inauguration of the Dream Heaven Youth Foundation (DHYF) at Okpu-Umuobo, Aba.
The event was held with the theme, “Empowering the Next Generation, Transforming Communities, Building Hope, Excellence and Creating Sustainable Futures.”
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Head of the Public Relations Unit, Mrs Duru Marvellous Darlington, said the state government was working to provide better education and more opportunities for children and young people.
He said the programmes of DHYF support the education plans of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, especially in the areas of free and compulsory education, skills training, technology, leadership development, youth empowerment and teacher recruitment.
Elder Ubochi said the government had already recruited 5,394 teachers, while another 4,000 teachers are currently being recruited. He said the move showed the government’s commitment to improving education in the state.
He also praised DHYF for supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education, poverty reduction, job creation and partnerships for development.
The Commissioner said the Foundation was doing more than giving charity because it was creating opportunities that could help young people become useful and productive members of society.
He assured DHYF that the Ministry would support its activities and continue to work with credible organisations that share the government’s vision of educating, protecting and empowering young people.
Elder Ubochi congratulated the Founder and Executive Director of DHYF, Rev. Dr Emmanuel U. Francis Umanah, as well as the Board, partners and other supporters. He expressed confidence that the Foundation would contribute positively to youth development in Abia and beyond.
Speaking at the event, Rev. Dr Emmanuel Francis Umanah said the Foundation was established to help address the problems facing children and young people, especially those from poor backgrounds and those who lack access to education and skills.
He said DHYF would focus on educating, training, feeding, mentoring and creating opportunities for children and youths.
According to him, giving children the right support today can improve their families and communities in the future. He also said young people with good skills, character and opportunities could contribute to economic growth.
Rev. Dr Umanah called for greater support from government, traditional rulers, community leaders, businesses, churches, philanthropists, mentors and volunteers.
He also advised young people not to allow difficult beginnings to destroy their dreams. He encouraged them to use their challenges as motivation to work hard and achieve success.
The Executive Director thanked the Commissioner, community leaders, donors, volunteers, mentors and other supporters for helping to make the Foundation a reality.
The Chairman of the occasion, HRH Eze P.C. Onyegbu, JP, Ugwu N’Eche Mba I of Ugwu-Nkpa Autonomous Community in Bende Local Government Area, commended Rev. Dr Umanah for establishing the Foundation.
He also thanked the Commissioner for honouring the occasion and said the development of children and young people was a responsibility that required the support of everyone.
Eze Onyegbu described the theme of the event as timely because of the many challenges facing young people today.
He also praised DHYF for having a clear structure and focus. He said the Foundation could help young people turn their talents and abilities into useful opportunities.
The traditional ruler expressed confidence that DHYF would make a positive difference in Osisioma Ngwa and other parts of Abia State. He called on government, businesses, churches, traditional institutions and individuals to support the Foundation.
The highlight of the event was the official unveiling and inauguration of the Dream Heaven Youth Foundation by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, represented by Mrs Duru Marvellous Darlington.
