LG Lawmaker Launch Scholarship Scheme to Address Out-of-school Challenges in Cal. Municipality

Ukorebi Esien | 22 March 2025

CALABAR — Hon. Edet Augustine Nyong Awards Scholarships to Students of Government Migrant Science and Technology College

The Councillor representing Ward 5 in the Calabar Municipality Legislative Council, Hon. Edet Augustine Nyong, has awarded scholarships to two deserving students of Government Migrant Science and Technology College, Ekorinim, in Calabar Municipality.

The kind gesture took place yesterday in Calabar during the school's inter-house sports celebration. The lawmaker, who was a special guest at the event, used the occasion to fulfill one of his campaign promises related to education.

Speaking shortly with journalists after the event, Nyong disclosed that one of his key commitments during his campaign was to reduce the high number of out-of-school children in Ward 5, Calabar Municipality. He expressed concern over the alarming school dropout rate in the ward and pledged to contribute his quota towards improving education.

As part of his efforts, Nyong has initiated a scholarship program aimed at encouraging students to stay in school. He revealed that the current awards represent the pilot phase of the initiative, with plans to expand the program in the future.

Photos:Scholarship Beneficiaries: Kingsley Benjamin -JSS1 Comfident Asuquo - JSS3

Beyond education, the lawmaker stated his commitment to making impactful legislations that would benefit the people of Ward 5 and ensure that the dividends of democracy are evenly distributed. He urged residents to remain steadfast in their support for Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu's People First Agenda and commended Hon. James Anam, Chairman of Calabar Municipal Council, for his recently concluded JAMB scholarship program.

Additionally, Nyong called on relevant stakeholders to support the school in addressing infrastructural challenges. He noted that Government Migrant Science and Technology College currently shares facilities with Ekorinim Primary School, which does not provide a conducive learning environment for students.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the school dropout rate in Calabar Municipality stands at 25%, meaning that one out of every four students drops out of school. The councillor emphasized the need for more public officeholders to prioritize education and work towards reducing this alarming rate.