Crr — The United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (Unicef) recently donated educational materials to Galleh Manda Lower Basic School, in Upper Fulladu West District, CRR south. The donated materials included exercise books, pencils, chalks, mats, early childhood development kits and footballs, among others.

Receiving the donated items, the headmaster of the school, Samba K. Mballow, commended Unicef for the assistance it is rendering to schools. He said the donated materials will go a long way towards complementing government's efforts. Mballow underscored the importance of education in national development, saying it prepares the citizens of a nation to be self-reliant, independent, obedient and loyal to the state.

Mballow also noted that the donated materials will contribute immensely to the attainment of quality education and assured the donors that they will be put into good use. He called on parents to monitor the education of their children and help them to read their books at home in order to improve performance. He urged the students to make best use of the opportunity accorded to them and make their books their friends.

The councilor of Galleh Manda Ward, Alhagie Nenneh Mbye, applauded Unicef for the gesture. He also hailed the regional education directorate for the support it is rendering to the school.

The deputy headmaster of the school, Daddy Sowe, highlighted on the importance of the materials to the school, while espressing appreciation for the gesture. He also advised the people of the area to send their children to school.

The alkalo of Galleh Manda, Alhaji Dam Jagne, also spoke at the ceremony.