Dr. Prada Uzodinma launches “Dear Teacher” campaign, pledges to sustain initiative beyond father’s tenure

Dr. Prada Uzodinma, daughter of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, has unveiled a touching education-focused initiative tagged “Dear Teacher Campaign”, dedicated to celebrating and supporting teachers who go above and beyond in shaping lives, especially in rural and underserved communities.

The launch event, held on October 24, 2025, at Rockview Hotels in Owerri, drew educators, government officials, and youth advocates who praised the project as a bold and heartfelt recognition of Nigeria’s unsung classroom heroes.

Dr. Uzodinma, a lawyer and education advocate, said the initiative stemmed from her lifelong appreciation of teachers’ roles in nation-building.

“I was trained by a good teacher, and that foundation shaped who I am today,” she said. “People say a teacher’s reward is in heaven, but I believe it’s time to bring a piece of that heaven to them right here on earth.”

She explained that the campaign focuses on identifying teachers working under challenging conditions and giving them both recognition and resources to continue their service.

At the event, two outstanding teachers — Mrs. Uchenwoke B. Chika and Miss Abigail K. Nzerem from Akatta Secondary School, Oru West LGA — were honoured with resource packages and incentives.

The celebration also highlighted the Prada Uzodinma Imo Indigenous Scholarship Grant (PUIISG), which supports Imo-born law students. Two beneficiaries, Onuoha P. Onyinyechi and Ejiugwu Glory Chineyere from Imo State University, were recognized for their academic excellence.

Expressing gratitude, the scholars commended Dr. Uzodinma’s generosity and called on others to invest in education across Imo State.

The event received commendations from top officials, including the Imo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ben Ikegwuoha, and the Commissioner for Youths and Talent Hunt, Hon. Emeka Mandala, who described the project as “transformational” and urged the government to sustain it.

Pledging long-term commitment, Dr. Uzodinma assured that the Dear Teacher Campaign would continue beyond her father’s administration.

“This is not about politics — it’s about purpose,” she said. “Teachers lit the torch that guided us all. Now, it’s time to let that light shine back on them.”

Observers say the campaign could inspire a new culture of appreciation for educators in Imo State and across Nigeria — one that honours teaching as the foundation of all progress.