The National Association of Seadogs has donated 5G internet broadband equipment worth over ₦600,000 to support digital learning in Ebonyi State’s proposed 49 smart schools.
The National Association of Seadogs, Pyrates Confraternity (NAS-PC), has donated 5G internet broadband equipment valued at over ₦600,000 to the Ebonyi State Government to improve internet connectivity and enhance digital learning across public schools.
The donation is aimed at supporting the proposed 49 smart schools being developed across the state’s 13 local government areas, as well as improving access to online educational resources in conventional government-owned schools.
Presenting the equipment to the Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Dr. Donatus Illang, the Regional President of NAS-PC’s South East region, Mr. Joe Mazeli, said the devices would enable students to access global information and participate in online learning activities.
Mazeli explained that the donation was part of the association’s commitment to supporting education and preparing students for the growing demands of digital technology.
He noted that internet access had become increasingly important in education, particularly as examinations and other academic activities continued to rely on digital platforms.
“We are here this morning to donate a small token of broadband internet devices to the state government through your office. We believe that this will go a long way in helping our children, whether in smart schools or conventional secondary schools, to stay updated with information, as the whole world is increasingly moving towards digital technology,” he said.
Mazeli added that the association was encouraged by the Ebonyi State Government’s efforts to improve educational standards and commended the Ministry of Education for its initiatives.
He reaffirmed NAS-PC’s readiness to collaborate with the state government on programmes designed to improve students’ learning experiences and academic performance.
According to him, the association considers the donation particularly timely as students prepare for upcoming examinations conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
He also praised Governor Francis Nwifuru’s smart school initiative, describing it as a significant investment in the future of children in Ebonyi State.
“We are here to pledge our support for your office and to let you know that we are open to collaboration,” Mazeli said.
Mr. Joe Mazeli
Responding, Illang thanked NAS-PC for the donation, noting that the 5G broadband equipment would strengthen internet access and improve the delivery of digital education in the state.
The commissioner said the devices would be particularly beneficial to schools in rural communities and other locations where internet connectivity remains a challenge.
He disclosed that the administration of Governor Francis Nwifuru had procured 989 smart boards for installation in the 49 smart schools under development across Ebonyi State.
According to Illang, the smart school programme is designed to modernise teaching and learning by integrating technology into classroom activities and providing students with access to electronic educational resources.
He explained that the initiative would support electronic laboratories, digital classrooms and online libraries, creating opportunities for students to engage with a wider range of learning materials.
Illang said the state government was committed to transforming the education sector through investments in infrastructure, technology and improved learning facilities.
He also commended the governor’s investments in primary, secondary and tertiary education, citing the Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology in Oferekpe and the proposed Aeronautics University in Onueke as examples of the administration’s educational development plans.
“Let me commend NAS for remembering to invest in the education sector in the state. The 5G broadband devices will go a long way in enhancing our smart schools and ensuring access to internet connectivity, especially in rural areas,” the commissioner said.
Also speaking, the Capoon of Aqua Saporita Deck, Mr. Kingsley Tanyi, said the association had consistently supported humanitarian initiatives and community development projects in Ebonyi State.
Tanyi explained that the broadband donation was part of NAS-PC’s broader efforts to contribute to education, healthcare, water supply and the general welfare of residents.
He commended Governor Nwifuru for prioritising education and said the association was encouraged by the administration’s investments in facilities intended to improve the future of young people.
The NAS-PC official disclosed that the association had earlier awarded scholarships to 30 students selected from secondary schools across Ebonyi State.
He said the scholarship programme was designed to support students from different parts of the state, adding that the association would continue to identify opportunities to contribute to educational development.
Tanyi also highlighted NAS-PC’s interventions in healthcare and water supply, noting that the association had organised medical outreaches at St. Vincent de Paul in Abakaliki.
He added that the association had provided a borehole for the facility, which accommodates elderly people, as part of its humanitarian activities.
According to him, NAS-PC remains committed to supporting programmes that improve access to education, healthcare, clean water and other essential services.
The donation of the 5G broadband equipment is expected to complement Ebonyi State’s smart school programme by improving students’ access to digital learning resources as the government continues its efforts to modernise public education.
The initiative also highlights the role of partnerships between government and non-governmental organisations in expanding educational opportunities and preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven world.
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