Baskadia

By Ettah Emmanuel O.

In an inspiring demonstration of its commitment to education, youth development, and community service, ECHOES of HWOSA has celebrated its first anniversary with a landmark Essay Writing Competition and Award-Giving Ceremony, reinforcing the publication's growing reputation as a catalyst for academic excellence and social impact.

The historic event, held at the Chapel of Hope, Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, brought together education stakeholders, alumni, media professionals, students, parents, and distinguished guests in a celebration that transcended journalism to make a meaningful investment in the future of young learners.

The anniversary event underscored ECHOES of HWOSA's philosophy that education remains one of the most powerful tools for sustainable development. Through the essay competition, students were challenged to think critically, express themselves creatively, and cultivate intellectual curiosity—qualities essential for responsible leadership in an increasingly competitive world.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of scholarships to the three outstanding winners of the essay competition. The beneficiaries received full scholarships for the next academic session, Certificates of Excellence, school bags, and exercise books in recognition of their exceptional academic performance and writing ability.

Beyond rewarding excellence, ECHOES of HWOSA extended its impact to the wider student community by distributing complimentary exercise books to more than 570 students, ensuring that hundreds of learners benefited directly from the anniversary celebration. The initiative reflects the publication's unwavering commitment to promoting access to educational resources while encouraging a culture of learning and academic achievement.

The ceremony attracted an impressive gathering of distinguished personalities from within and outside the Hope Waddell Old Students Association (HWOSA). The National President of HWOSA, Arc. Ekpo Ekpenyong Akiba, was represented by Prof. Okpok Okon, while the President of HWOSA Calabar Branch, Elder Bassey Etim, attended alongside members of the Branch Executive.

Also present were the Principal and staff of Hope Waddell Training Institution, the Global Coordinator and members of HWOSA Class of '89 (International), members of the Editorial Team of ECHOES of HWOSA, parents, students, alumni, and numerous invited guests who gathered to celebrate a vision rooted in educational empowerment and community service.

The event received significant media support from the Cross River State Broadcasting Corporation (CRBC), whose General Manager, Mr. Bassey Samuel Nsor, facilitated extensive media coverage of the programme. Additional publicity was provided by NaijaBlase TV, whose partnership helped amplify the initiative and extend its reach to a broader audience.

While the scholarships, awards, and educational materials represented tangible achievements, organisers described the greatest success of the day as the visible joy and renewed hope reflected in the faces of the students. Their excitement served as a powerful reminder that strategic investments in education can transform lives, inspire ambition, and shape future leaders.

Speaking on the significance of the anniversary, Publisher of ECHOES of HWOSA, Iyoho Ezekiel, expressed profound gratitude to everyone whose support made the initiative possible. He acknowledged the visionary leadership and unwavering encouragement of the National President of HWOSA, Arc. Ekpo Ekpenyong Akiba, as well as the steadfast support of the President of HWOSA Calabar Branch, Elder Bassey Etim, and members of the Branch for embracing the publication's educational vision.

Special recognition was equally accorded to the publication's Editor-in-Chief, Julius Ephraim (DGN), whose dedication and professionalism have continued to strengthen the editorial standards and growing influence of ECHOES of HWOSA.

The Publisher also extended heartfelt appreciation to sponsors, partners, supporters, Friends of ECHOES of HWOSA, volunteers, and every individual whose contributions transformed the anniversary celebration into a remarkable success.

As ECHOES of HWOSA commemorates its first year of purposeful service, the publication has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing education, promoting academic excellence, nurturing young talents, and contributing meaningfully to community development through impactful initiatives that leave lasting legacies.

The success of the inaugural anniversary celebration signals the beginning of an enduring tradition—one that places education, service, and human development at the heart of its mission. With a clear vision and growing institutional support, ECHOES of HWOSA is poised to continue inspiring lives and creating opportunities for generations of students to come.

In Spe Gloriae Dei — In the Hope of the Glory of God.