The Commissioner for Health in Enugu State, Prof. George Ugwu, has tasked schoolchildren on personal cleanliness, regular participation in statewide immunisation and focus on their studies.
Ugwu gave the task on Monday in Enugu during an educational excursion by pupils of Wins School, Enugu to his office and the state Ministry of Health. The excursion, which formed part of the school’s practical learning activities on the topic, “Leaders in My Nation,” was designed to broaden the pupils’ understanding of the roles and responsibilities of public office holders and public institutions.
Ugwu commended the school for exposing the young learners to leadership education, governance, community service, and functions of important societal institutions like the Ministry of Health early in life. According to him, as I earlier stressed the importance of cleanliness and immunisation, you should also obey your parents and authorities, as they will always guide you on the right path of life.
He said, “This laudable initiative, which is the visit to institutions, will help nurture these young learners to be responsible, patriotic and service-oriented citizens. “As true leadership is rooted in selfless service, integrity, discipline and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others.
“I encourage you to remain focused on your studies, cultivate good character and aspire to become leaders who will positively transform their communities and the nation.” The commissioner advised the young learners to “dream big” and work diligently towards achieving their aspirations.
After a guided tour of the ministry, the commissioner gave an overview of the functions of the ministry. In a nutshell, Ugwu explained that the ministry is responsible for developing policies and programmes that promote quality healthcare, prevent diseases and improve the well-being of the people of Enugu State.
Responding, teachers accompanying the pupils noted that the excursion provided the schoolchildren with a rare opportunity to experience governance firsthand. They said that the excursion had made classroom lessons more practical, engaging and memorable while inspiring the young learners to appreciate the importance of leadership and public service.
The high point of the event was a question-and-answer session. The excursion reinforced the importance of experiential learning, being propagated by Gov. Peter Mbah’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of leaders through meaningful engagement with public institutions.
