By Michael Foli Jackidy
Huive (V/R), Jan. 31, GNA — Mr Eric Edem Agbana, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, has marked his birthday with a philanthropic gesture to pupils of Huive MA Basic School, recalling a poignant encounter with the children in October 2024 that inspired his return to the school.
Mr Agbana recounted that on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, he visited the school during the heat of the electioneering period.
At that, where the pupils offered what he described as a “priceless gift” — prayers for him and for then flagbearer John Dramani Mahama to emerge victorious in the December 2024 General Elections.
“They prayed with me and for President Mahama to win. It was a powerful and moving moment that has stayed with me,” he said.
Beyond the emotional encounter, the MP said he was deeply struck by the conditions under which many of the pupils were schooling, particularly the absence of proper uniforms and footwear for a significant number of children.
“That same day, I noticed that many of the pupils had no shoes and no proper uniforms. It was impossible to ignore,” he noted.
Determined to act, Mr Agbana returned to the school on his birthday January 29, accompanied by his longtime associate, Ms Obuobia Darko-Opoku, and representatives of Soles of Hope, a non-government organisation focused on supporting vulnerable children.
The team donated newly sewn school uniforms to every pupil from Kindergarten through Junior High School.
Each child also received a brand-new pair of shoes, a school bag, and five customised exercise books to support their academic work.
According to the MP, the gesture was meant not only to improve the learning environment for the pupils but also to affirm their dignity and self-confidence as they pursue their education.
“There was no better way to celebrate my birthday than by leaving a lasting mark on the hearts of our future,” Mr Agbana said.
Teachers and community leaders at Huive MA Basic School expressed appreciation for the support, describing the donation as timely and impactful, particularly for pupils from disadvantaged households.
They noted that the items would go a long way of boosting attendance, morale, and overall participation in school activities.
The donation forms part of Mr Agbana’s broader commitment to education and child welfare in the Ketu North Constituency, aimed at reducing barriers to learning and promoting inclusive development at the grassroots level.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei