By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Hon. Abel Nansak Nimshak, the representative for Langtang North-North in the Plateau State House of Assembly, has reiterated his dedication to improving the educational system in his constituency, stressing the vital importance of education in driving societal change.
He emphasized the pressing need to tackle the declining state of education, noting that meaningful advancement in Langtang North can only be achieved through significant improvements in infrastructure and increased student motivation.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2024 free summer lessons held at Government Secondary Schools in Langtang and Zamko—an initiative he sponsored—Nimshak underscored education’s critical role in addressing societal issues and ensuring a sustainable future for the youth.
He stated “When I decided to run for the House of Assembly, I conducted a comprehensive research that highlighted education as one of our major challenges. The situation is not just about infrastructure; fewer people are motivated to become teachers, and students are losing the drive to learn. As i have travelled through Langtang North, I have observed the pervasive decline in various sectors, particularly in education,” he stated
Hon. Nimshak also praised the students for their dedication throughout the program. “Your participation shows great commitment, and I commend you for it. These extra-moral lessons are crucial for bridging academic gaps, especially for students who face challenges attending regular school sessions due to financial or other constraints.”he said.
In recognition of exceptional performance, Nimshak announced scholarships for the top three students in each class, stating “The top three students from each class will be awarded scholarships, covering a year of their education. This is just one of the many ways we plan to support our youth.”
“With God’s help, we will sustain and expand these extra lessons. When we receive constituency development allowances, education will remain a priority, alongside healthcare and infrastructure. He emphasized.
In a keynote address themed “Train a Child, Build a Nation,” Dr. Fabong Jemchang Yildam, Director of Health Financing at USAID-IHP Nigeria, emphasized the transformative power of education in nation-building. He stated that education instills confidence and empowers individuals to advocate for their rights, stating that Hon. Nimshak’s initiative marks a significant step towards cultivating future leaders.
“Education is fundamental to building a nation. It empowers individuals, fosters economic growth, and reduces societal ills.Through education, we equip individuals with the tools to make informed decisions, maintain good health, and contribute positively to the economy. It is the greatest form of empowerment,” Yildam noted.
In a goodwill message, Comrade Gangrene Gangtim, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Langtang North, commended Hon. Nimshak for organizing the program and urged him to sustain his support for education in the constituency. He pointed out the need for assistance in addressing challenges such as understaffed schools and improving mobility for local education authorities.
Similarly, NUT Secretary for Langtang North, Nanyok N. Joshua, expressed gratitude for the program and its organizers, praising Hon. Abel Nansak Nimshak and the participating teachers. He underscored the urgent need for educational advancements to cultivate future leaders and called for improvements to dilapidated classrooms in the community, stressing the importance of enhancing educational infrastructure for community development.
The students expressed their appreciation for the program. Eme Chinecherem Peace, an SS1 student, described how the lessons helped her fill gaps in her education. “Even some people who didn’t have the opportunity to attend regular school lessons have gained a lot from this,” she noted. Another student, Nanmak Enoch, thanked the legislator, acknowledging the role the program has played in improving his academic performance.
The event featured student presentations and the distribution of prizes and educational materials, reinforcing Hon. Nimshak’s commitment to supporting education in his constituency.
