Prince Chukwudi Oli, a lawyer and alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has paid the school fees of 28 children at the Sickle Cell Orphanage and Underprivileged Home in Agulu, Anambra State.
The intervention has enabled all 28 children to return to school for the new academic session, with the home expressing gratitude to Oli for fulfilling his commitment to the vulnerable children.
According to the Director of the home, Mrs Aisha Edwards Maduagwu, the gesture went beyond the payment of school fees, as it also addressed the accommodation and welfare challenges confronting some of the older children.
Maduagwu said the children aged 12 and above were placed in boarding schools because of limited space at home and the need to provide them with a safer and more stable environment, particularly as many of their families struggle with economic hardship.
She described Oli’s intervention as a major relief to the home, noting that the rising number of children and the cost of education had placed considerable pressure on its resources.
She said the children would remember the support and hoped the experience would inspire them to extend similar kindness to others when they become adults.
Maduagwu also commended the boarding schools that admitted the older children, including Community High School, Akweze, and Rosa Mystica College, Agulu, for providing them with care and educational support.
She appreciated St. Albert the Great College, Agulu; St. Anthony Comprehensive Institute, Agulu; Santa Maria Nursery and Primary School, Adazi Nnukwu; Practising School, Agulu; and Mount Zion Academy, Adazi Nnukwu, for their continued support for the younger children.
While wishing the children a successful academic term, Maduagwu urged public leaders and other well meaning Nigerians to support vulnerable children, particularly those living with sickle cell and other special needs, describing education and care as essential to their future.
She said Oli’s intervention had brought relief to the home and expressed appreciation for keeping his promise to the children, while praying for his continued good health and blessings.