In celebration of this year’s Children’s Day, the Dachung Musa Bagos Foundation has donated a total of ₦2 million to support vulnerable children across 20 schools in Plateau State, with each school receiving ₦100,000 to cover school levies for students in need.
The celebration, which held at Sarau Event Centre in Jos, brought together over 500 students from six local government areas (LGAs) and was marked by donations, cultural displays, and calls for greater commitment to children’s welfare and education.
Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos, founder of the Foundation and former member of the National Assembly, described the donation as an investment in the future of the Plateau child. “We’re not just celebrating; we’re investing in your future,” he told the cheering students. “Each of you has the seed of greatness. Stay in school, finish strong, and make your teachers proud. They are the true builders of this nation.”
In addition to the cash support, students received school bags stocked with educational materials including notebooks, socks, and pens.
Delivering a keynote on behalf of the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Barr. Julia M. Gwaivangmin stressed the importance of child protection. “It is a crime under the VAPP Law for a parent to abandon their child. We’ve secured convictions and will continue to fight for children’s rights,” she said. She urged children to speak out against abuse, bullying, and exploitation.
The Foundation’s Executive Director, Mrs. Lydia Dachung Bagos, reiterated the organization’s focus on education as a tool for empowerment. “We want every child to stay in school and keep dreaming. Our mission is to walk with them—school by school, child by child—so that no child is left behind,” she said.
Gratitude poured in from teachers and students alike. Mr. Azeez, a teacher from Bassa, described the event as more than a celebration. “This is a rescue mission for education in Plateau. The ₦100,000 donation will go a long way in easing the burden on our students and schools,” he noted.
Mrs. Serah Arin of New Fobur LEA School in Jos East called on parents and educators to continue working together to prevent school dropouts and nurture peaceful communities. “Education is the key, and we must all play our part,” she said.
Students like Emmanuela Ayuba and Gabrieal Appreciated shared their excitement, saying the event had inspired them to stay focused on their dreams and education.
The celebration featured poetry, music, parades, and cultural performances, making it a memorable occasion dedicated to the hopes and futures of Plateau’s next generation.