Yobe Foundation graduates 16 orphans for secondary education
By Tada JUTHA, Damaturu
The Ya-Zara Orphan Care Foundation (YOCF), has graduated 16 orphans with the secure of admissions into the El-Kanemi College of Islamic Theology, Potiskum in Yobe.
With the secured admissions, they are to complete their basic and secondary education at the College of Islamic Theology, Maiduguri.
While graduating the orphans yesterday (Monday) in Potiskum, the Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, who doubles as Chairman of Foundation’s Board of Trustees, disclosed that another batch of 16 orphans are to depart Potiskum to Maiduguri for their six-year basic and secondary education.
According to him; “Today’s occasion is organised to welcome the second set of orphans, comprising 15 boys and 10 girls into the Orphanage.”
“This is an indication of the interest and commitments to overcome the plights of orphans affected in the 12-year Boko Haram insurgency,” warning that their education and future should not be compromised by any administration in the state.
On Foundation’s establishment, he said: “We established the Orphanage to provide a loving and supportive home environment for orphans.”
He said that the first set of 25 orphans was drawn from four Councils of Fika, Fune, Nangere, and Potiskum.
He noted that the objectives of providing free education and care for the orphans were to identify individuals, institutions, and philanthropists for securing the future of orphans.
The Minister, therefore, assured that the College has allowed the Foundation to use its curriculum with periodic visits of staff to the Orphanage.
According to him, the visits are to assess the implementation of academic programs and advise appropriately.
He said the collaboration has strengthened the resolve to seek affiliation of Foundation’s programs with the College.
“With the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today, the remaining 16 orphans from the pioneer set will join six other orphans in JSS 2.
This brings the 22 orphans pursuing their basic education program at the El Kanemi College of Islamic Theology,” he said.
According to him, the orphans’ scholarships are N50 million for their secondary education.
He however noted: “Regrettably, we lost one of the female orphans, Aisha Adamu Bawa; while another male Orphan could not continue as a boarding student.
Besides, he added plans are underway to construct shops and donate them as endowments to generate revenue for the Orphanage Home.
