Deputy Opposition Leader in Parliament, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, has donated essential school materials to more than 500 pupils across Constituency 048 in Tonkolili District.
The donation, valued at approximately NLe100,000, included school bags, customized exercise books and pens, aimed at supporting pupils from more than 80 rural communities and villages within the constituency.
A total of 4,000 exercise books were distributed, with each of the 500 beneficiaries receiving a school bag and two pens to support their educational needs.
Presenting the materials, Hon. Koroma stressed the importance of education as a foundation for personal development and national progress. He noted that although schools had already reopened, many parents and guardians were facing economic difficulties in providing basic educational materials for their children.
He said the initiative was motivated by his desire to ease the financial burden on vulnerable families and ensure that no child is disadvantaged in the classroom because of a lack of essential school supplies.
According to Hon. Koroma, as a Member of Parliament and representative of the people, many young people in his constituency look up to him as a role model and source of inspiration. He said he therefore considers it his responsibility to encourage pupils to take their education seriously and work hard to achieve their aspirations.
Reflecting on his humble background, Hon. Koroma urged the pupils to remain focused, disciplined and determined, stressing that their circumstances should not prevent them from pursuing excellence.
He also cautioned the pupils against drug abuse, warning that substance use could negatively affect their health, education, future careers and overall wellbeing.
The Deputy Opposition Leader urged the pupils to stay away from drugs and other negative influences and instead focus on their education while using their time and talents productively.
Hon. Koroma further assured pupils, parents and community members of his continued commitment to supporting initiatives that promote education and improve the welfare of young people in Constituency 048 and beyond.
The donation comes at the beginning of the school year and is intended to help vulnerable pupils meet some of their basic educational needs.