Bare: The Dr LEE Educational Foundation (DLEF) has inaugurated a library in Bare Community, Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa, as part of efforts to reduce truancy among underprivileged children. Mrs Michele Justin, the Executive Director of DLEF, U.S., made this known during the launch of the ‘Pages of Hope Library’ on Monday in Bare.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Justin said the initiative was inspired by her desire to improve access to education in the community, which is the ancestral home of her husband. She expressed concern over the state of education in Bare, noting the lack of textbooks, insufficient number of teachers, and irregular school attendance among pupils. She highlighted the contrast with schools in the U.S., where children have access to ample learning resources and consistent class schedules.
‘This project is our way as a family to contribute to their educational journey. It is the first of many educational projects we hope to do across Adamawa State, God willing. My appeal to the community is to safeguard this facility, use it wisely, and encourage both children and adults to access knowledge through it,’ Justin said.
Dr Lydia Adamu, the Chairperson of the DLEF Nigeria, mentioned that the foundation, established in 2021, has carried out several educational interventions beyond the commissioning of the Pages of Hope Library. The library is stocked with books by Nigerian and international authors, alongside computers to enhance digital literacy among children. She also highlighted past initiatives, including distributing school supplies to 400 pupils and sponsoring 26 students under the Wise Kids Initiative, and the launch of the ‘Educate to Elevate’ Teacher Empowerment Initiative in 2024.
The Hama Bachama, Dr Daniel Ismaila, commended the foundation’s philanthropic gesture. Represented by Dr Aguso Bamaiyi, District Head of Gyawana, the traditional ruler emphasised the critical role of education in societal development. He urged the community to support the library by donating books, computers, and furniture.
Mrs Kate Mamuno, Member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly (Demsa Constituency), praised the initiative, especially as it was led by a woman. She expressed her commitment to collaborating with the foundation to replicate similar projects in other communities to enhance education across the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that highlights of the event included cultural performances and donations to the library for sustainability.
