By Daniel Obagha
The Anambra State Government has approved a School Adoption Programme aimed at encouraging private individuals and corporate organisations to support the development of public schools across the state.
The initiative was approved during the State Executive Council meeting held on June 22 at the Light House, Awka.
The Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, disclosed this on June 23 when the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, paid him a courtesy visit at his office in the Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka.
Mefor said the programme is designed to attract support from philanthropists, professionals and corporate bodies to complement government efforts in improving educational standards.
According to him, the School Adoption Programme will enable individuals and organisations to contribute their expertise, resources and experience towards the growth of schools, noting that government alone cannot provide all the resources needed to deliver quality education at the primary and secondary school levels.
“There are many people who are passionate about education and willing to make a difference. Through this programme, they can support schools by providing essential facilities and learning materials such as desks, chairs and other basic amenities that will enhance the learning environment,” he said.
The commissioner noted that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration places strong emphasis on education as a foundation for sustainable development, citing the free education policy from kindergarten to senior secondary school as a major investment in human capital development.
He added that the governor’s commitment extends beyond free education through initiatives such as the 1 Youth, 2 Skills programme and digital skills training under the Solution Innovation District, which are aimed at equipping young people with employable and entrepreneurial skills.
Mefor noted that Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra into the African-Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley (ADTS) model is steadily taking shape through strategic investments in infrastructure and human capital.
He explained that while Anambra remains a leading hub for commerce and entrepreneurship, the state’s development agenda is increasingly driven by technology and innovation.
“Our vision is to build a technology- and innovation-driven economy. Trade and commerce remain important, but technology will strengthen every sector, including agriculture, business and governance. Through digital innovation, activities such as shopping in major markets can be conducted virtually from anywhere using a mobile device,” he said.
Earlier, leader of the COOU delegation, Comrade Uwaoma Blessed, said the visit was to seek the commissioner’s support for an upcoming student-focused programme titled “Gratitude Today, Purpose Tomorrow.”
The programme coordinator, Inyene Peter Udo, explained that the initiative is designed to prepare final-year students for life after graduation through practical skills acquisition, mentorship and career guidance.
“Gratitude Today, Purpose Tomorrow is a student development programme aimed at equipping students with the knowledge, skills and direction needed to successfully navigate life beyond the university,” he said.
Udo expressed appreciation for the advice and encouragement received from the commissioner, adding that the event is scheduled to hold on August 15.
Other members of the four-man delegation included the programme secretary, Comrade Chinaza Nzekwesi, and Comrade Makua Emmanuel Chukwukaekwu.
Daniel Obagha is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
