By Etieno Ibanga|The Evangelist news
UKANAFUN, In a remarkable show of commitment to education and professional mentorship, the Akwa Ibom/Cross River Chapter of the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE) has donated science laboratory equipment and educational materials worth millions of naira to Western Annang Secondary Commercial School (WASCO), Ikot Akpa Nkuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area.
The intervention, spearheaded by a distinguished alumnus of the school, Professor Esang Esitkot, took place on Wednesday within the school premises and featured a career guidance session, an interactive Q&A segment, and a presentation of equipment ranging from beakers, conical flasks, burners, lens, tripod stands, organ models, to customized exercise books and biro pens.
Prof. Esitkot, a seasoned Chemical Engineer and university lecturer, described the gesture as a personal mission to give back to the institution that shaped his early life. He lamented the infrastructural decay in the school and called on fellow alumni and government agencies to join efforts to restore WASCO’s lost glory.
He specially acknowledged Hon. Unyime Idem, Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, for his visible contributions towards reviving the school.
Addressing the students, Prof. Esitkot emphasized the importance of creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in engineering. He urged them to align their career choices with personal interests, strengths, and long-term aspirations, encouraging them to pursue goals that would stand the test of time.
The visit also included the participation of the NSChE Chairman, Engineer Ikemesit Orok, who led a delegation of executives and members from Akwa Ibom and Cross River States. He encouraged the students to consider careers in chemical engineering and affirmed the Society’s ongoing support for educational initiatives.
Also present was Engineer Ahmed Isa, General Secretary of NSChE, who commended Prof. Esitkot’s philanthropic spirit and shared practical success strategies with the students.
Adding a vital dimension to the event, Mrs. Mfon Umoren, a Chief Nursing Officer, sensitized the students on key health practices, underscoring the link between physical wellbeing and academic excellence.
The school’s Principal-General, Pastor Udeme Akpan, expressed deep gratitude for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful. He reiterated the school’s urgent need for attention and called on more stakeholders to emulate the example set by the alumni.
Students were visibly excited, expressing appreciation for the knowledge shared and the materials received. Many pledged to study harder, drawing inspiration from the visit to aspire toward greatness.
