Despite a drizzling morning and muddy roads, the spirit of kindness shone brightly at Oharisi Primary School in Ughelli North, Delta State, as the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation carried out its 2025 Back-to-School Outreach, an initiative aimed at giving vulnerable children a fair start to the new school year.
By 8 a.m., volunteers had gathered with energy and purpose, loading boxes of school supplies, bags, uniforms, shoes, and exercise books, ready to make a difference.
Inside the school compound, parents and teachers were already waiting eagerly, unaware that even with reduced funding this year, the Foundation’s commitment to education would remain unwavering.
As the event began, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and anticipation. The Foundation’s team, led by Project Lead, Ruth Akinbode, moved from class to class, ensuring each pupil received something meaningful. For some, it was their first-ever new school uniform; for others, a bag or a pair of shoes. The joy on the children’s faces told a story words could hardly capture.
One of the pupils, nine-year-old Elohor, beamed as she held up her new backpack and said, “I am so happy! I can now go to school looking neat like my friends. Thank you, Oke Umurhohwo Foundation.” Her simple words reflected what the day was truly about, restoring dignity and confidence through small acts of love.
Even the rain could not dampen the moment. The school’s headmistress, Mrs. Ben Oru, expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “For years, this Foundation has been consistent in showing up for our children. It’s not just the materials they bring, it’s the hope they give. They make these children believe they are seen and valued.” Beyond material support, the Foundation also celebrated academic excellence. The top three pupils in the school received mathematical sets as tokens of motivation.
Their excitement drew applause from their peers, inspiring others to strive harder in their studies.
Speaking after the presentation, Mrs. Oru noted, “Encouragement like this makes a huge difference. When children see that good performance is recognized, they aim higher. We are truly grateful.”
For the Founder, Hon. Oke Umurhohwo, the outreach was not just an annual routine, it was a deeply personal mission. Reflecting on the initiative, he said: “Every time I see a child’s face light up from something as simple as a school bag, I’m reminded why we started this Foundation. Education changes everything, it’s the most powerful tool for equality and progress. Our dream is to reach even more communities and schools, but that dream depends on collective goodwill.
His words resonated with the volunteers who had braved the weather to make the day possible. Many of them, drawn from different professions and backgrounds, spoke of how the outreach reminded them that impact doesn’t always require millions, just compassion and consistency.
By the end of the day, 500 pupils had received school materials, and countless parents left with smiles and gratitude. As the team gathered for a final group photograph under the cloudy Ughelli sky, laughter and chatter filled the air. It was more than just a charity event, it was a reminder of what unity, empathy, and purpose can achieve.
The rain that had threatened the morning seemed to wash the town in renewal. For every child who received a bag, a book, or a uniform, there was a renewed belief that their future was worth investing in.
About the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation: The Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to driving social change through education, women and youth empowerment, and community development initiatives across Delta State and beyond.
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