The Hope Waddell Training Institution Old Boys Association (HWOSA), Class of 1992, has granted scholarships to the top-performing students in the Junior and Senior Secondary categories for the 2023/24 academic session.
The association established the scholarship endowment funds as a means to promote excellence, diligence, and academic focus among students. Dr. Itojong Ayamba, the Coordinator of HWOSA Class of ’92, emphasized the importance of instilling a culture of hard work in young minds, challenging the notion that success is solely achieved through connections rather than diligent effort.
Dr. Ayamba emphasized the urgent need to recalibrate the culture of diligence among young individuals, particularly in light of the prevalent phenomenon of seeking quick wealth.
He noted a concerning trend where many youths no longer believe in the efficacy of hard work, instead placing undue emphasis on networking and connections. However, he stressed the enduring value of diligence, highlighting that while connections might offer initial opportunities, it is sustained hard work that ensures long-term success.
He underscored the importance of dedicated study and mastery in one’s chosen field, emphasizing that the knowledge acquired through education is an invaluable asset that cannot be taken away.
The aim of the scholarship Endowment Fund is to motivate these young individuals to strive for excellence and personal growth, thereby preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the nation’s progress and development.
Mr. Essessien Inyang, the Deputy Class Coordinator, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the association’s commitment to fostering excellence by extending support directly to the students through the scholarship initiative.
He mentioned that in the past, they had undertaken various projects such as the renovation of the principal’s office, but this time they opted to focus on reaching out to the students.
Mr. Okon Ita, the Principal of Hope Waddell Training Institution in Calabar, expressed immense joy at the sight of former students returning to contribute to their alma mater.
He expressed optimism for the future, stating that it fills him with pride as a distinguished HOWADIAN himself. Mr. Ita commended the alumni association for their generosity and encouraged others, both locally and internationally, to follow the example set by the Class of ’92.
He expressed his gratitude for the goodwill, emphasizing the pleasure of seeing former students returning to support the school’s growth and development. He remarked that the success of former students in various locations around the world serves as a testament to their achievements and reflects positively on the institution. He concluded by noting that only a successful individual who remembers their roots can truly appreciate the significance of giving back.
“I am delighted by this goodwill , it’s a thing of joy to see your old students coming back to contribute thier quota to the growth and development of the school , I’m very proud and happy“We have them all over the country and the rest of the world, their visit shows they are doing very well wherever they are , because it is only a child that is doing well that can remember home,” he said
One of the beneficiaries and overall best student of Junior Secondary School category ,11 year old Fabian Okon said the scholarship is a boost for him adding that it will encourage him to study even more.
“I won’t let my guard down, I will study harder and better to achieve excellence in every session , I know that this scholarship is a huge relief for my parents this session , so I’m very happy for the gesture by the Association,” he said.