A non-governmental organization, Makarios Initiative for Health and Humanitarian Development, has called on corporate organizations across Nigeria to play a more active role in promoting academic excellence by publicly celebrating exceptional students.
The appeal was made during the second edition of the International Day of the African Child (IDAC) celebration held in Ikeja, Lagos, where hundreds of schoolchildren gathered to participate in educational and health-focused activities.
The 2026 event was organized around the theme, “Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every African Child,” highlighting the importance of creating healthy environments that support children’s learning and development.
Speaking during the programme, the Co-founder of Makarios Initiative, Mrs. Lauretta Patrick-Nwachi, emphasized the need to encourage academic integrity and excellence among students. She noted that recognizing high-performing students through public platforms such as billboards could inspire others to work harder and reduce the temptation of examination malpractice.
According to her, quality education remains one of the most important investments any society can make for its future. She explained that children who excel academically deserve greater recognition from both public and private organizations.
Mrs. Patrick-Nwachi, who authored the book Kika’s Examination, said the publication was inspired by a true-life experience involving her daughter and was created to encourage students to value honesty, hard work, and dedication in their studies.
She expressed concern about the learning conditions in some schools and stressed that improving education should not be the responsibility of government alone. Parents, teachers, school administrators, community leaders, and corporate organizations all have important roles to play.
The education advocate further suggested that companies could support learning by offering meaningful rewards and scholarships to outstanding students. According to her, such initiatives would motivate learners, boost teacher morale, and contribute to raising educational standards nationwide.
“When children see that excellence is rewarded and celebrated, they become more motivated to succeed through hard work rather than shortcuts,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, Pastor (Dr.) Patrick Nwachi, a leader within the Makarios Initiative, explained that the organization was established in 2017 to address challenges affecting women and children, particularly in the areas of health and education.
He highlighted several interventions carried out by the organization, including efforts to reduce maternal mortality and support healthcare delivery in underserved communities. He also noted that the foundation has provided training and support to traditional birth attendants as part of its humanitarian work.
Dr. Nwachi described his wife as a passionate advocate for education whose commitment to excellence dates back to her school days, where she consistently distinguished herself academically.
The event also featured health awareness sessions focused on children’s eye health. The Managing Director of Phemahad Eye Clinic, Dr. Nkechi Ugboh, stressed the importance of regular eye examinations for schoolchildren.
She explained that access to clean water and proper hygiene contributes significantly to eye health and overall well-being. Dr. Ugboh called on schools to introduce regular eye screening programmes and urged teachers to be trained to identify early signs of vision problems among pupils.
According to her, good eyesight plays a critical role in effective learning, and early detection of eye conditions can help improve children’s academic performance.
The programme concluded with renewed calls for stronger partnerships among government agencies, schools, healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and private sector stakeholders to improve the quality of education and welfare of African children.
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