School resumption: NGO kicks off library project for rural schools

An Abuja based Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), Helpline Foundation for the Needy, yesterday started its “Adopt a Library Initiative” with a donation of a book shelve, filled with assorted books, to the Local Education Authority (LEA) primary school in Dutse-Alhaji area of the FCT.
The initiative, which is part of the scholarship scheme of the foundation, is aimed at bridging learning gap between urban and rural schools in the Territory.
It was gathered that the unveiling of the project was also part of the Foundation’s activities to mark the 2020 edition of the International Literacy Day in Abuja.
Unveiling the project, President of the foundation, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted teaching and learning for students globally, most especially students in rural communities who do not have access to online learning platforms.
Ahmadu said Nigerians must collectively commit to supporting students in rural communities by providing resources to stimulate their interest in learning.
The Helpline President, who spoke through the Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation, Mrs. Funmi Ajare said: “With the support of friends and partners, we will be reaching more vulnerable students with books, computers, internet facilities and other learning materials.”
Recieving the books on behalf of the school, the Head Mistress of LEA Primary School, Dutse-Alhaji, Mrs. Adebomi Ajoke, appreciated the efforts of Helpline Foundation and promised to put the Library to good use.
She however bemoaned that the school may face some challenges when schools finally reopens because of its high student population.
She also opined that achieving social distancing among pupils, may be difficult due to the shortage of chairs among other shortages of protective equipment prescribed for school resumption.

Source: People’s Daily