Foundation Unveils Library to Combat Truancy in Adamawa Community

Dr. LEE Educational Foundation (DLEF) has officially inaugurated a new “Pages Of Hope Library” in Bare community of Adamawa State, an initiative specifically designed to combat school truancy among underprivileged children in the community. The unveiling ceremony took place on Monday. Mrs. Michele Justin, Executive Director of DLEF United States of America (USA), announced the […]

Dr. LEE Educational Foundation (DLEF) has officially inaugurated a new “Pages Of Hope Library” in Bare community of Adamawa State, an initiative specifically designed to combat school truancy among underprivileged children in the community.

The unveiling ceremony took place on Monday.

Mrs. Michele Justin, Executive Director of DLEF United States of America (USA), announced the library’s opening, stating her determination to uplift her husband’s hometown community through education. She expressed concern over the prevailing educational standards in Bare, contrasting them sharply with the well-equipped schools in the USA where children typically engage in learning from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“Most of the children here lack essential textbooks, schools are understaffed, and truancy is prevalent during school hours,” Justin lamented.

“This disparity prompted my intervention in their educational pursuit. This is just the first step, and God willing, there will be many more across Adamawa State.”

She urged the community to cherish and utilize the facility, emphasizing its potential for children after school hours and for adults seeking knowledge.

Dr. Lydia Adamu, Chair of DLEF Nigeria, highlighted the foundation’s extensive contributions since its establishment in 2021.

Beyond commissioning the library, which is furnished with diverse books from various authors and computers to motivate young readers, DLEF has implemented several educational interventions.

These include distributing school bags and writing materials to 400 pupils in 2023, providing long-term educational sponsorship to 26 students through the DLEF Wise Kids Initiative, and launching the DLEF Educate to Elevate Teacher Empowerment Initiative in 2024.

The Hama Bachama, Dr. Daniel Ismail, represented by Dr. Aguso Bamaiyi, District Head of Gyawana, commended the donors for their thoughtful philanthropy towards the people of Bare and Adamawa State.

He highlighted education as the bedrock of societal development, enabling individuals and communities to reach their full potential.

Dr. Bamaiyi encouraged all age groups to patronize the library and collaborate in its security and maintenance. He also called on indigenes of Bare, Numan LGA, and Adamawa State to support the founder’s efforts by donating books, computers, and furniture for the library’s sustainability.

In the same vein, Hon. Kate Mamuno, Member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly representing Demsa LGA, expressed delight at the project being founded by a woman, encouraging others to emulate such community commitment.

She affirmed that as lawmakers, they would collaborate with DLEF to extend similar educational projects to other communities across the state, advancing learning among children and youths.

Daily Trust reports that highlights of the event included a fundraising drive for the library and vibrant cultural dance performances from community members.