In Gbatse, a small town in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State, at least 183 adult learners have enrolled in a new free education programme that’s quickly becoming a beacon of hope for the community.
The initiative, a joint effort by Better Life Initiative, Upswing, and Revival Prayer Outreach, offers free education from primary one through junior secondary three for adult learners, with aspirations for future expansion.
The programme was officially launched at Gbatse Community Primary School on Thursday and was met with an enthusiastic turnout from residents eager to improve their literacy.
Ms. Maureen Okechukwu, Country Director of Upswing for Better Life Initiative, said the community’s eagerness to learn exceeded expectations.
“We were truly moved by their passion. It’s clear they are ready to embrace education,” she said.
Gbatse was selected based on its high illiteracy rates and the supportive stance of local leaders and the traditional ruler, who welcomed the programme wholeheartedly.
The Zakir of Gbatse Kingdom, His Royal Highness Zika Pila Jeremiah III, officially inaugurated the initiative, encouraging adult learners to remain focused on their studies for both personal and communal growth.
Meanwhile, Apostle Wisdom Ezenyi of Revival Prayer Outreach explained that the programme originated from a spiritual outreach and evolved into an educational response after seeing the community’s literacy gap.
Currently, the programme caters to 183 students, and the organizers are working toward adding senior secondary classes.
The monarch’s generous donation of the school building provided a solid foundation for the programme’s operations.
Additionally, seven adult learners have been enrolled in formal secondary schools, and two successfully completed the Junior WAEC exams, while five dropouts were supported with school fees and exam funding.
Community elder Baba Ahua Nyagba praised the programme and promised unwavering local support, assuring that the initiative would thrive without threats or disruption.
Many residents now believe the adult education initiative could be a powerful catalyst for long-term development within Gbatse.
