The Chiggy Nsofor Foundation (CNF) embarked on an impactful outreach this May, that was dedicated to wiping tears and putting smiles on the faces of some students of St. Philips Academy, a missionary school in Mararaba area of Abuja. The academic outreach was targeted at both male and female senior students who could not afford to pay their school fees by alleviating the financial burdens on their parents.
Beyond payment of the current term school fees for many, the foundation’s efforts extended to offsetting outstanding debts of many more students at the same school by clearing a backlog of unpaid fees, thereby giving these students the opportunity to thrive and focus academically, unburdened by the continuous thoughts of debts. In addition, CNF paid the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for students who had not yet made payments due to financial hardship.
The outreach was concluded with a health talk led by Health and Wellness Advocate, Lois Amele on the importance of menstrual hygiene for senior female students which equipped them with the knowledge and resources (distribution of sanitary pads and tissue papers by CNF) essential for their menstrual hygiene.
Speaking on the success of the outreach, CNF Founder, Chiggy Nsofor noted that, “what happened here today exceeded my expectations and I am really glad. The result was really beautiful. We were able to pay current term fees and backlog fees from previous terms for students who were owing.” She further noted that, “it was so beautiful to see the joy in the students’ faces when we gave them the news that we had cleared their bills. We are glad we were able to put a smile on people’s faces.” She encouraged them on the need to remain in school for a greater future and went on to admonish final year students of St. Philips Academy not to remain idle while they wait for admission into higher institutions.
Expressing gratitude to CNF Founder, Rev. Tony-Dada Aderomose, Founder of St. Philips Academy, said, “I am highly impressed at your coming to this school and with this work you have done. I have no words to really express my joy. Especially the address you gave to the female ones that are just growing. I am so impressed, and I thank God for your life. You are building them up, you are building a new Nigeria. If these children are built up, I’m sure that Nigeria will be good and in fact the whole world will be good.” He continued, “you looked to the indigent ones among them and paid their outstanding, their school fees. When I look at you, I say this is so amazing and you are so uncommon. May God continue to bless you.”
Emmanuella Andy, one of the students whose fees were paid in full appreciated the foundation for their efforts. She stated, “I want to thank you very much for paying my school fees. It has not been easy for me and my parents. I’m very grateful. Thank you very much.”
As the success of the May academic outreach is reflected upon, it serves as a reminder of the profound impact that collective action can achieve. Each student supported represents a beacon of hope for a more inclusive future. The Chiggy Nsofor Foundation’s commitment to empowering individuals through education remains unwavering. Together, we can help more students stay in school.