Edu impact Initiative, BON Accord Brothers Wrap Up 2025 Literacy Bridge Summer Program in Old Umuahia

Edu impact Initiative, BON Accord Brothers Wrap Up 2025 Literacy Bridge Summer Program in Old Umuahia

The 2025 edition of the Literacy Bridge Summer Lesson, a one-month educational program jointly organized by the Edu impact Initiative and BON Accord Brothers, has successfully concluded, leaving a transformative impact on over 460 participating children and youths.

The event, hosted at St. Silas Anglican Church, Old Umuahia, brought together students, parents, educators, and community leaders in a spirited drive to close the literacy gap and promote academic excellence among young people aged 10 to 21.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Dr. Joel Asonye, Program Director of Edu impact Initiative, emphasized the mission of the non-profit startup: “Our focus is bridging the gap in literacy education and preparing students for higher education. For those admitted to federal universities, we plan to offer subsidized support,” he said.

He further expressed appreciation to BON Accord Brothers, a community development platform, for their crucial role in supporting the program.

“This initiative would not have been this impactful without their partnership,” Dr. Asonye noted. He also highlighted the ongoing commitment of Edu impact Initiative to other projects, including a tech boot camp and environmental awareness campaigns.

“We had over 460 students registered this August. While some excelled, others are still finding their footing—but the key message is this: we are here to support every child on their journey to success,” Dr. Asonye added.

The program assessed students’ skills in reading, writing, and comprehension through interactive and accessible methods. Organizers used the opportunity to call on the Abia State Ministry of Education and related agencies to build stronger collaborations with grassroots organizations.

Dr. Asonye made a special appeal for Old Umuahia to be included in the State Smart School Initiative, citing the historical significance of St. Silas Primary School—one of the oldest schools in the former Imo State.

“Old Umuahia has always been a center of learning. It’s only fitting that it benefits from the state’s digital education initiatives,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Mr. Onyanuala Chinomso of BON Accord Brothers reiterated their commitment to giving back to the community:

“Before now, we’ve done skill acquisition programs. Education is a legacy in Old Umuahia, and we must preserve that. We want those coming behind us to know that education is the key to success.”

Miss Wogu Chamaka Prudent, who emerged as the overall best student of the program, expressed heartfelt gratitude:

“It’s not just about numbers. It’s about learning and staying hopeful. I thank God and the organizers for this opportunity and pray for continued blessings upon them.”

Mr. Osinachi David Ekwueme, Program Lead for Edu impact Initiative, revealed that 467 students were enrolled in the program. He emphasized that the Literacy Bridge was only the beginning:

“Our mission is to bridge the literacy gap and promote quality education. This is just one of many projects we plan to execute, with more boot camps and educational outreaches coming soon.”

Mr. Ekwueme pointed to the influence of Dr. Asonye: “His passion for education inspired this project. He believes in nurturing young minds, and that’s what drives us.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa, who was present at the event, called on citizens not to rely solely on the government:

“We have a working government in Abia State, and its progress is evident. But development should be everyone’s responsibility. Good things are contagious—let’s all contribute to the state’s success.”

He also lauded the efforts of Edu impact and BON Accord Brothers for demonstrating that meaningful change is possible through community collaboration. He encouraged Abians in the diaspora to return and contribute to the state’s education sector.

A notable highlight of the event was the award of ₦250,000 to the best-performing student, a gesture intended to support tuition and educational materials.

In closing, organizers urged parents to remain committed to their children’s education.

“Some parents would rather have their children on the farm during holidays, but those who brought them here understand the value of education. That’s the spirit we want to encourage,” Mr. Ekwueme said.

The Literacy Bridge Summer Program did not only provide academic support, it also reinforced the value of community-driven development.

As Abia State continues to make strides in educational reform, grassroots efforts like this remain vital in ensuring that no child is left behind.

Speaking with Journalists, Iheukwumere Yvette, the overall best performer in Primary 4, Wogu Chinaka Prudent, the overall best performer in Senior Secondary 5 who went home with a whooping sum of N250,000, applauded the organisers of the event, saying the knowledge acquired will assist them in future endeavors.

Correspondent reports that the 1st position went home with the sum of N250,000, 2nd position N150,000, third position N100,000, there were financial prices of N15,000 each for 10 secondary school students as well as 30 quality bags for best primary 4-6 pupils.