In a bold move to bolster access to quality education, a socio-cultural group, the Aweleka Social Club of Nigeria, has expanded its scholarship programme to accommodate over 100 primary and secondary school students for the 2025/2026 academic session.

At a ceremony held in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South local government area, the group said beneficiaries were selected based on financial needs from 17 schools across the community, and one in Lagos.

The scholarship scheme, held in collaboration with Harvest Haven Farms, covers all educational expenses, including levies, uniforms, bags, textbooks, notebooks, sandals, exam fees, extra lessons, and registration for senior school certificate examinations.

The President, Obi Onyetonekwu, emphasised that the scholarship initiative is part of the group’s mission to uplift indigent but brilliant students.

“We currently support 104 primary school pupils and four secondary school students. Some of our past beneficiaries have even advanced to the university level,” he said.

The Chairman, Harvest Haven Farms, Mr Chiedu Okafor, said their goal is to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, regardless of the current challenges facing the country’s education sector.

The group also used the occasion to call on the Delta State Government to declare a state of emergency in the education sector, citing deteriorating infrastructure and lack of basic facilities in public schools.

“Many of the schools we visited are in a state of disrepair. Toilets are nonexistent in some areas, and classrooms are falling apart. We urge the government to increase education funding and prioritise infrastructural development.”

Expressing appreciation, the Head Teacher of Onihe Primary School, Mrs Ada Eboji, said the scholarship programme has rekindled hope and academic interest among pupils.

“We, as teachers, pledge to provide closer guidance and mentorship to ensure these students make the most of this opportunity,” she added.