Schoolchildren get bags and cash

Gilbert (right) with Phillip (second right) during the event

4 November 2024

By AVV

PAPAR: Investing in education benefits not only the individual beneficiaries but also the community as a whole.

Datuk Gilbert Sham, United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) Papar Division Chief emphasises the profound impact of contributions towards children’s education.

“Contributions towards children’s education are invaluable,” Datuk Gilbert Sham states.

“They create opportunities for young minds to thrive, fostering a brighter future for them and society. Education is a powerful tool that empowers children to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their dreams.”

He further highlights that “when we invest in education, we invest in the potential of future generations.”

Commemoration of the event

Every child deserves access to quality education, and through collective efforts and contributions, that can ensure that these young learners are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed, he said, after distribution assistance of school bags and cash to 528 students from SK Rampazan, SK Padawan and SK Limputung.

The event held at Biau Multipurpose Hall, here was attended by parents, teachers, and pupils as well as members of the communities.

The items were contributed by Yayasan Bank Rakyat (YBR) led by its chairman Datuk Philip Lasimbang who distributed the items. Also present was UPKO stalwart Marcellus Tambud.

YBR is an agency under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives led by Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.

“He has always encouraged efforts to promote education in every way, and we appreciate and thank him for this,” Gilbert who is also the UPKO Vice President and Member of TEKUN Board of Trustees.