Mrs Blessing Bernard, proprietress of Emerging Potential Montessori Academy ( EPMA), a nursery/primary school in Karu, Nasarawa State, says, education is an important aspect of human life.
Speaking at the speech/prize-giving and graduation ceremony of her school, she applauded parents for the vital roles they play in the academic pursuit of their children.
She said she established the school out of passion for education and commended parents for believing in the capability of the school, which they had demonstrated through sacrifices they were making for their children.
Bernard noted that for teachers and parents to get it right and fast in the lives of children, certain requirements must be put in place.
“Maximum cooperation and relationship with the child; recognising the strength of the child and encouraging him or her to succeed are necessary ingredients.
“Other ingredients are the provision of necessary materials needed for effective and qualitative learning, discipline and correction of the child at all times and treating teachers rightly among others.
“Our vision is to nurture children for greatness. That is the main reason why the school is known for a Montessori teaching pattern.
“We set target for every class and work together with the pupils to achieve the targets effectively,’’ Bernard said.
She appreciated teachers in the school and urged the graduating pupils not to relent, but to be responsible and remain disciplined.
In his remarks, chairman at the ceremony, Mr Yilbissa Manasseh, commended the school management for services rendered to the children.
Manasseh called on parents, especially fathers to encourage their children take education seriously and also ensure they attend prize giving ceremonies of their children’s schools.
“It is very unfair for men not to participate in such a great and remarkable occasion like this.
“If we look around, we observe that this place is dominated by women.
“These children are our wealth; our future leaders; they need to be encouraged by their fathers for them to feel better,’’ he said.
A parent, Mrs Nkem Olojede, commended management and the school’s teachers for striving hard and for their patience to ensure that children got the education they deserved.
“Their contribution and empowerment in making our children to chase their dream is highly appreciated.
“I personally would like to take this opportunity to thank members of staff for all their hard work. Your hard work and diligence have not gone unnoticed.
“Thank you so much for everything you do and have done in providing a safe, nurturing, inspiring and supportive learning environment for the children,’’ she said.
Another parent, Mrs Victoria Simeon, said she was impressed with the brilliant performance of the children.
Simeon appreciated the school’s management and teachers for their great job, urging them to continue in the same stride.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the children debated topical issues, displayed choreography and sang melodious tunes at the ceremony.
Gifts were presented to the best overall pupils in each class to mark the end of the ceremony.