By Nsan Ndoma-Neji
In an effort to give back to the institution that laid a formidable foundation for him to climb the ladder of life, Cross River indigene Engr. Dr. Amba Ndoma Egba has settled WAEC fees for 97 indigent students of Akparabong Community Secondary School, (COSSA), his alma mater in Ikom local government area in Cross River State.
The beneficiaries span different classes, and the sponsorship began in 2023 and ran through 2024, 2025, and 2026.
The engineer said the donation was aimed at supporting the school that built his academic foundation. “I am a product of this school, and I believe no child should drop out of school because their parents cannot afford fees,” he stated.
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Reflecting on his childhood in Akparabong, Dr. Ndoma Egba said the experience taught him the importance of community backing. He added that economic hardship often forces rural students to quit school. “Education is the only real investment that can break the cycle of poverty in our communities,” he averred.
As the son of a farmer who grew up in Akparabong village, he said he understands parents’ dilemma between feeding families and paying fees. He described the situation as “hectic for parents in the community” and a major reason many children miss school.
He opted for a multi-year plan to give students real stability. “One session is not enough to give a child stability. By covering school fees for indigent students from 2023 through 2026, going forward, I want to give these students breathing space to focus on their studies without fear of interruption,” he added.
Stakeholders have commended the move. PTA member Mr. Anthony Odey, speaking for school authorities and community leaders, called the intervention “timely and impactful.” Teacher Mr. Mbeh Nsan Osim noted, “This kind of support will keep many children in class who would have otherwise stayed home,” while parent Mrs. Elizabeth Okoma called it “a seed for the future.”
Egba has a history of education support. He previously bought JAMB forms for over 40 students and has funded law graduates from the community through law school. He urged other successful Cross River indigenes to invest in their roots: “If each of us can lift even a few children, our communities will change faster than waiting for government alone,” and pledged that his ventures will keep funding such initiatives.
