Ham Foundation launches Manko 1.0 grant to empower 500 Kwara north students
•Plans 2.0 and 3.0 grant awards for Kwara central and south
On Wednesday, 13th November 2024, Ham Foundation launched the Manko 1.0 Grant, an initiative aimed at empowering 500 students in Kwara North to support their academic journey.
The Director of Programs, Comrade Baladaba, announced that the initiative would be implemented in phases, with Kwara North as the focus for Batch 1.
“This is just the beginning,” he said. “We plan to expand to Kwara South and Central in future phases. Our mission is to support students and communities across Kwara State.”
Baladaba expressed that the empowerment drive affirms the Ham Foundation‘s commitment to easing students’ financial burdens and promoting better academic outcomes.
He added that the foundation is committed to extending this support across all regions of Kwara State, ensuring that students in underserved areas have the resources needed to excel.
The program received positive feedback from students and community leaders, who see it as a significant investment in Kwara’s youth.
The launch event featured a welcome address by Ham Foundation staff member Mr Mustapha Mayaki and a keynote speech by Mrs Memunat Mamzuma, UNDP/NJFP North Central Regional Coordinator.
Mrs Mamzuma emphasised the importance of educational support for community development and encouraged students to remain dedicated to their studies.
The event included the presentation of the Manko 1.0 Grant Awards to beneficiaries and goodwill messages from distinguished guests.
Dignitaries in attendance included representatives from the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS), leaders of NAKSS chapters from institutions such as the University of Ilorin, Kwara State University, and Kwara State Polytechnic, along with members of local unions and student organisations.
In her remarks, Ham Foundation spokesperson Omomejie Nafisat reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to community development through initiatives in education, agriculture, health, water outreach, and technology.
She added that the foundation also provides support for WAEC, NECO, and JAMB exams, among other educational aid, to drive socio-economic progress across Kwara.
