Uyo — As part of its contribution towards the successful implementation of the free education in Akwa Ibom State, the Ikot Ekpene chapter of the PDP has commenced the distribution of free teaching aids to primary schools in the area. The items include cartons of school chalk, ball point pen and exercise books.

Some of the benefiting schools are: Methodist Primary School, Abiakpo Ikot Essien; St. Anne's Catholic Primary School, Itak Ikot Udo; Methodist School, Ikot Otu/Ndiya Etok; Primary School, Ikot Atasung/Ikot Obong Otoro; Migrant Farmers School, Abiakpo Ikot Udo Oboro; Migrant Primary School, Adatak, and Saint Andrew's African School, Abak-Ifia.

Presenting the items, the Ikot Ekpene PDP Chairman, Chief Sonny Ibanga, stated that the gesture was the demonstration of the party's commitment to ensuring the smooth and efficient implementation of the free and compulsory education policy of Governor Akpabio-led administration. Ibanga, who described education as the bedrock of development, restated the party's readiness to bring development to the grassroots. He reasoned that it is the responsibility of the party and the people of the state to support government programmes, projects and policies if they must see the light of the day. While maintaining that the party has been repositioned to serve the people better more than ever before, Ibanga, urged the people to cooperate and support the present administration for a better Akwa Ibom.

In their separate remarks, the head teachers of the benefiting schools expressed appreciation to the state government and Ikot Ekpene PDP for their interest in education. At the Methodist Primary School, Abiakpo Ikot Essien, the Headmistress, Mrs. Nkereuwem Anwana, represented by her deputy, Mrs. Francisca Bassey, and that of Primary School, Itak Ikot Udo, Mrs. Justina Bassey expressed delight that the government is out to make education policy a success. They also pledged to utilise the materials.

At Methodist Primary School, Ikot Otu/Ndiya Etok, the Headmaster, Mr. Ibanga Umoituen, requested for the renovation of the school blocks which he said was built in the early 50s, provision of dual desks, tables and chairs, construction of VIP toilet and urinary and provision of band set, among other things.

Chief Sonny Ibanga immediately announced the donation of a band set for the school and promised to intimate government of other requests.