By Igbavboa Samuel Omokheoa
Edo Diaspora Agency delivers 10,000 educational materials to pupils. Books and writing materials reach Useh and Urunmwon primary schools.
As part of efforts aimed at educational development, the Edo State Government through the Edo State Diaspora Agency, has partnered the Bethlehem Intercessory Ministry, Russia, led by Pastor Mrs Rachel Omobhude, on the distribution of 10,000 educational materials to pupils of Useh Primary School and Urunmwon Primary School in Egor Local Government Area of the State.
According to the Director-General (DG) of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dr. (Mrs.) Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor, the initiative, which included books and writing materials, was aimed at supporting teaching and learning through helping pupils to access essential educational resources for their academic development.
The DG of the Agency, represented by the Agency’s Internal Auditor, Mrs. Yvonne Okoh, commended the Bethlehem Intercessory Ministry for its generosity and commitment to improving educational opportunities for children in Edo State.
She encouraged Edo indigenes at home and abroad, as well as diaspora-based organisations, to follow the Ministry’s example by investing in initiatives that address community needs and contribute meaningfully to the development of the State.
Dr. Ogboro-Okor stated that the partnership reflected the importance of building strong relationships between the Edo State Government, diaspora organisations and local stakeholders to deliver practical benefits to citizens. She noted that the initiative aligned with the education component of the Edo State Government’s SHINE Agenda, reinforcing the Sen. Monday Okpebholo-led administration’s commitment to human capital development and a better future for Edo children.
In her remarks, the Founder of Bethlehem Intercessory Ministry, Russia, Pastor (Mrs.) Rachel Omobhude, expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government for creating an enabling environment for non-governmental organisations and diaspora partners to contribute to the State’s development priorities. She explained that the donation of 10,000 educational materials to pupils of the two primary schools was part of the Ministry’s commitment to giving back to society and supporting educational development in Edo State.
Pastor Omobhude’s remarks underscored the value of collaborations between government institutions and philanthropic organisations on responding to the needs of local communities. For the pupils and teachers of Useh and Urunmwon primary schools, the intervention represented more than the provision of books and writing materials. It is a practical investment in children’s learning and a reminder that their future matters to people and organisations beyond their immediate communities.
The initiative also highlighted the role of the Edo State Diaspora Agency as a bridge between the State Government and its diaspora community. By fostering relationships with Edo indigenes abroad and diaspora-based organisations, the Agency continued to create opportunities for resources, goodwill and expertise to be channelled towards development at home.
Also in attendance were the head teachers and teachers of both schools, alongside representatives of the Bethlehem Intercessory Ministry, Russia.
