Yesterday, during our campaign rally at Obowo, I had the incredible opportunity to reconnect with one of my primary school teachers, *Mrs. Philomena Onukwubiri*, after an astonishing six decades since we last met.

The moment I saw Mrs Onukwubiri, a flood of memories, rushed back to me. I was instantly transported back to those cherished days of my childhood when she played a fundamental role in shaping my educational foundation. Her dedication, patience, and unwavering commitment to her students were truly remarkable.

Meeting Mrs. Onukwubiri, after all these years, was a joyous occasion filled with emotions. It was a chance for me to express my heartfelt gratitude for the lasting impact she had on my life. We reminisced about the fun memories we shared in the classroom, the lessons she taught us, and the values she instilled in each and every one of her students.

Mrs. Onukwubiri’s presence reminded me of the importance of quality education and the role that teachers play in shaping future generations. The passion she displayed for her profession was inspiring, and it reaffirmed my commitment to improving our education system as a governorship candidate.

I firmly believe that investing in education is key to building a prosperous and equitable society. As I embark on this journey towards public service, I am driven by the memories of exceptional educators like Mrs. Onukwubiri. They taught me the power of knowledge and the impact that a dedicated teacher can have on a student’s life. Mrs. Onukwubiri, in particular, inspired me to pursue a career in public service because she showed me how education can be a catalyst for positive change.

She was not just a teacher; she was a mentor, a role model, and a friend. She had an incredible ability to captivate her students’ attention and make learning enjoyable. Her passion for teaching was contagious, and she fueled our curiosity by creating an environment that encouraged exploration and critical thinking.

She believed in the potential of every student and went above and beyond to ensure that we had the resources and support needed to succeed.

Mrs. Onukwubiri would spend countless hours outside of class, preparing engaging lessons, offering extra help, and providing guidance on personal and academic matters.

But what truly set Mrs. Onukwubiri, apart, was her genuine care for her students. She took the time to understand our individual strengths and weaknesses, and she tailored her teaching approach to meet our needs. She encouraged us to embrace our uniqueness and to never be afraid of failure, reminding us that mistakes were an essential part of the learning process.

Mrs. Onukwubiri’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. She instilled in us a sense of responsibility towards our community and encouraged us to use our knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world. She showed us that education was not just about acquiring knowledge but also about using that knowledge creatively and effectively to bring about positive change. It enables us to explore, analyze, and apply what we learn in innovative ways, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Education encourages individuals to think outside the box, question the status quo, and develop their own unique perspectives. It fosters a sense of curiosity, allowing us to explore different fields and disciplines and uncover new possibilities.

When we use our knowledge to create, we tap into our creative potential and contribute to the growth and development of society. Whether it’s through art, literature, science, technology, or any other field, education equips us with the tools to transform ideas into reality.

Moreover, the creative application of knowledge often leads to social and economic progress. By using our knowledge to innovate and create, we can address societal challenges, improve existing systems, and pave the way for a brighter future.

So, education not only equips us with knowledge but also empowers us to use that knowledge to create, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in the world around us.

Senator Athan Achonu
LP Governorship Candidate, Imo State