Eighteen pupils from the Binkolo Catholic Secondary School, in Safroko, Limba Chiefdom have received educational scholarships from John Alfred Baimba Sesay, on Wednesday 17 May 2017.
Stakeholders of Binkolo Township, school authorities and students witnessed a colourful ceremony as excited pupils gathered their scholarships.
John Baimba Sesay hails from Kapethe village in the Safroko Limba Chiefdom in Bombali District. He is presently the Press Attaché to the Republic of China. Sesay has been quietly helping in his community for several years.
During the ceremony held in the school’s compound, Sesay explained his motives to the crowd. “My intention or gesture comes with no political ambition or motivation. I felt I should give back to my people. Education changed my life and made me into a recognisable personality today. The only way I can give back is to empower my young ones through education. We all know education is the pillar to development and therefore in my little efforts to enhance education in my Chiefdom, I chose to give out scholarships to these 18 pupils”.
He encouraged the pupils to put more emphasis on their education and for those that didn’t receive the scholarship to work hard for the next academic years so they too can benefit. “The scholarship is a way to inspire the pupils,” Sesay said.
Councillor Mohamed Bashiru Fofanah, said “This scholarship has given support to 18 pupils to continue their education. Despite the challenges and troubled economic situation in the country, you have dug deep into your pockets to support educational growth in your Chiefdom”.
He admonished the pupils to ensure they make good use of the monies and continue to put more efforts in their education.
Both Principals of Binkola Junior and Senior Secondary School referred to John Baimba Sesay as, “an illustrious son of Safroko Limba Chiefdom”. He said Sesay’s kindness to young ones has proven his love towards his people and community.
Acting Principal of JSS, Desmond S. L. Bondi, said, “Investing in education is the greatest investment for the future; therefore you have sown a seed that will benefit these pupils and help them develop through education.”
The Chief Imam, Alhaji Amadu Jawara and Rev. Kamanda H. Kamara, lay emphasis on the importance of education. They applauded Sesay and asked the beneficiaries to ensure they continue to work hard.
The school authorities of Binkolo Catholic Secondary School called on the Government to act immediately. “In Safroko, Limba Chiefdom, we have only one secondary school serving the entire Chiefdom and about 7 primary schools. The school is a horrible, dilapidated structure and not suitable for learning. And, the 30 teachers are not on any pay voucher.”
By Mariam S. Bah
Friday May 19, 2017.