A non-governmental organisation aimed at promoting education and holistic development of children in rural communities, known as the Raising the Hope of Rural Children Initiative, has been formally inaugurated at Ndikelionwu in Orumba North Local Government Area.
The initiative, founded by a legal practitioner, Barrister Joy Okoli, coincided with the third anniversary of the organisation. It is focused on giving hope to rural children by promoting their education, rights and dignity, drawing inspiration from the life experiences of its founder.
The programme, themed From the Village to the World: Bridging Dreams, Unlocking Potentials, featured the distribution of learning materials to children, health and educational talks, as well as prayer sessions.
In his address as Guest of Honour, Chief Barrister Gozie Udemezu stated that every child deserves love and encouragement, noting that children perform better when their abilities are nurtured. He advised parents to avoid suppressing their children’s talents, urging them instead to speak positively, identify their strengths and provide the necessary support, describing such efforts as worthwhile investments.
While inaugurating the foundation, an Enugu-based lawyer, Barrister Nwakaeze Eze, commended Barrister Okoli for her commitment to the future of rural children. He noted that although some people assume children from rural areas may not succeed, initiatives such as this expose them to opportunities, positive values and pathways to achieving their full potential. He urged parents to prioritise sound education for their children, describing it as the foundation of society, and encouraged the children to remain focused and prayerful.
Earlier, the convener and founder of the initiative, Barrister Okoli, reiterated her belief that every child deserves an equal opportunity to dream, learn and succeed, regardless of background. She stressed that children in rural areas are not inferior, but require encouragement, access to opportunities and the support of a community that believes in their abilities.
