West Africa Container Terminal (WACT), Onne, recently celebrated a major milestone as the inaugural batch of its scholarship recipients successfully graduated from the program.
This achievement marks a new chapter in the company’s efforts to uplift its host communities through educational empowerment.
Justin Okwuofu, WACT’s Community Relations Manager, reflected on the journey of the WACT Scholarship Program, which was launched three years ago to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged youths in the Onne and Ogu communities of Rivers State.
“Through this program, we have awarded scholarships to 100 students, enabling them to attend university and acquire the skills and knowledge needed to build successful careers,” Okwuofu remarked. “In addition, some of our beneficiaries are also offered internships, providing them with hands-on experience and grooming them for future opportunities within our company.”
Okwuofu emphasised WACT’s unwavering commitment to the program, inspired by the success stories of its graduates.
“The testimonies of the scholarship graduates have shown us how this initiative has transformed lives, opening doors they never thought possible,” he said.
Looking ahead, WACT plans to ensure the program’s long-term sustainability by forming partnerships with local businesses to offer internships and job placements for graduates.
“We are exploring new ways to expand the scholarship program to reach more students in need,” Okwuofu added, “and we are also considering developing vocational training initiatives and community outreach programs. Our goal is to be a true partner and advocate for the people we serve, creating lasting positive change.”
Among the beneficiaries is Taribo Samuel, a scholarship recipient from Ogu Community, who expressed his deep gratitude for the program.
“The WACT scholarship scheme has taken the financial burden off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on my studies. I believe this initiative was born from a desire to empower the next generation,” he said.
Similarly, Kate Jorbe, a recipient from Onne, praised WACT for its support.
He said, “This scholarship has been instrumental in helping me through my university education, and I am grateful for the opportunity.”
Community leaders also lauded WACT’s initiative. Sunday Dudu, Chairman of the Onne Community Development Committee, commended the scholarship program, highlighting how it has alleviated the financial challenges faced by students. He urged WACT to consider absorbing some of the graduates into the company’s workforce.
The Chairman of the Ogu Community Development Committee, Bara Thompson, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging WACT’s positive impact through scholarships and internships. “WACT has shown a commendable commitment to community development by providing financial support, mentorship, and guidance for students to succeed,” Thompson said.
As WACT continues to invest in the education of its host communities, it not only fulfils its corporate social responsibility but also contributes to the long-term growth and prosperity of the Onne and Ogu communities. This milestone is just the beginning of WACT’s deeper engagement in fostering lasting change through education and empowerment.
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