Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow Starts New Rotary Year by Investing in Girls’ Education, Donates 60 Writing Desks To ACMGS
By Rtn Precious AHiakwo
Port Harcourt, July 1, 2025 — “You have to be bold and confident of yourself. Do not let anybody intimidate you in any form.” Those were the words of Rotary International District 9141 Governor, Rotarian Anthony Woghiren, as he addressed students of Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls’ School (ACMGS), Elelenwo, during the commissioning of 60 brand-new desks donated by the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow.
Governor Woghiren, who just assumed office, took a moment to speak directly to the young girls, urging them to take pride in their identity and education.
“That’s why you are going to school,” he said. “If things are not clear to you, you have your teachers and your principals. They will empower you… Aspire to be who you want to be. If you want to be an engineer, you will be an engineer. If you want to be a doctor, you will become a doctor.”
Turning attention to the donation, Woghiren noted the significance of learning in a dignified environment.
“I don’t like boys sitting on the ground. But when I see girls sitting on the ground, it annoys me more,” he remarked.
“That’s why I want you to have a comfortable place to carry out your learning activities. The only thing you owe us is to maintain this place, so that when you leave the school, the next set can use it too.”
The 60 desks were donated as part of the club’s maiden project under the theme “Dust To Desks” launched by the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow.
Speaking at the ceremony, Club President Rotarian Grace George said the donation reflects the club’s commitment to tangible service.
“As a club, the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow believes in doing good in the world, not only in words but in deeds,” she said.
“By providing functional desks, we are not just giving furniture; we are helping to restore dignity to the classroom, improve concentration, and create a more inclusive environment.”
She added a message of encouragement to the girls:
“These desks are for you. Sit on them with pride. Use them to build your dreams. Let them be symbols of what is possible when community and service come together.”
President Grace George also praised teachers and school staff for their relentless dedication to shaping future leaders.
“We hope this small act strengthens your hands and lifts your spirit.”
Principal of the school
In response, Principal of ACMGS, Mrs. Chinyere Ordu, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture.
“This donation is a timely intervention,” she said. “On behalf of the management, staff, students, and the entire ACMGS family, I say a very big thank you. This is a historic day for us. We truly appreciate the Rotary Club for counting us worthy to benefit from this wonderful donation.”
The event brought together esteemed Rotarians, including, District Executive Secretary Rtn. Kelechi Ekezie, District membership chair Rtn. Hamilton Odum, Assistant governor John Akinyemi Sodipo, Assistant Governor Victor Awowade, the District Treasurer Rtn. Douglas Odimaa, Members of the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Odili Meadow, old girls of Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls School Elelenwo, led by the National President of the Old Girls Association, students, Mrs.Joyce Ndigbara and the school’s principal, all gathered to witness the milestone.
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