By Dayo Johnson, Akure

In a bid to promote digital literacy in underserved communities, the Rotary Club of Akure, Ondo state, has donated an ICT centre equipped with computers and a projector to Imafon Community High School in Akure.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Club President, Rotn. Gbadebo Oyewo, said the donation aligned with Rotary International’s commitment to Basic Education and Literacy.

He noted that ICT competence has become essential as schools transition from paper-based examinations to computer-based testing.

The President who added that the Club plans to collaborate with other partners to supply more devices soon, thanked the state Education commissioner, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, and the Chairman of the Ondo State Information Technology Agency, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, for supporting the project.

Oyewo expressed confidence that the school would receive new computers in the next fiscal year and that a Computer Studies teacher would be posted to the school in the coming academic term.

Explaining the choice of Imafon Community High School, the President, noted that Rotary had previously built a block of six classrooms in the school and identified ICT support as a top priority during a needs assessment.

He emphasised the importance of ICT in boosting innovation, employability, communication and economic growth, urging government and stakeholders to address the school’s remaining needs, including more computers, additional classrooms, internet connectivity, an interactive board, and a printer.

Oyewo said that “Once more, I want to humbly request on behalf of the school that a Computer Study Teacher be posted.

“There are still so much to do in the school. These are, but not limited to the following: More classrooms-due to the growing enrolment-discussion is ongoing with the SUBEB; Additional computer sets-to serve more learners’ needs; Printer-for the use of the school; Internet Connectivity; Interactive Board (It is possible!)”

The SITA Chairman, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, who commended the gesture of the club pledged the support of the Agency for more impactful projects,

Akinribido who assured that the school would be considered for additional computer sets in the next fiscal year said that the school would be accredited as a CBT centre.

Also speaking, the Olumafon of Imafon, Oba Aliu Adegbehingbe, who appreciated the Club for its continuous support opined that with the earlier donation of a block of six classrooms and now a computer centre, the school’s enrolment rate would increase. .

The Principal of the school, Mrs. Eniola Oyedokun, appreciated the Rotary Club for the support, and assured that the facilities would be used judiciously.

The Area Education Officer of Akure North, Mrs. Falusi, represented the Hon. Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, applauded the efforts of the Club and promised continued collaboration.

Students of the school who were elated for the gesture expressed their appreciation and prayers for members of the Rotary Club of Akure.

The occasion was graced by Rotary District 9126 Governor, Rtn. Funkeakpo Ken Batife, who presided over the handover ceremony.