The Member of Parliament for Okere Constituency in the Eastern Region, Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth, has announced plans to establish a scholarship scheme to support brilliant but financially disadvantaged students in the area.

The initiative, dubbed the “Okere MP Scholarship Fund,” was unveiled during a “Pens Down” programme for 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates, held at Adukrom on Friday, May 15, under the auspices of the MP.

The “Pens Down” initiative is a structured youth engagement programme designed to celebrate BECE graduates in a controlled environment, discourage risky post-examination behaviour and guide students as they transition into Senior High School.

According to the MP, the proposed scholarship scheme, to be developed in collaboration with traditional authorities, will support outstanding students from Senior High School through university.

Speaking on the rationale behind the initiative, Hon. Nana Addo-Kenneth stressed that no student in Okere should be deprived of education due to financial hardship.

“No brilliant student in Okere should drop out of school because of financial difficulty. We will support you from SHS to university if you prove yourself,” he assured.

He further encouraged students facing challenges to seek help through appropriate channels, including teachers and traditional leaders.

“Whenever you face difficulties, speak to your teachers or your chiefs. Once it reaches me, I will do my best to support you,” he added.

The Special Guest of Honour, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, Member of Parliament for Manhyia South and Vice Chairman of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee of Parliament, underscored the importance of mentorship and positive peer influence in shaping students’ futures.

He cautioned students against negative peer pressure in senior high school and urged them to remain disciplined. “Be very careful in Senior High School. Stay away from corrupt friends who can derail your future,” he advised.

He also highlighted Okere’s longstanding tradition of producing influential leaders. “Okere has gifted Ghana leaders like Dan Kwaku Botwe, whose legacy is written in gold”, he noted. He further described the current MP as a worthy successor to that legacy, praising his performance in Parliament.

According to him, Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth has distinguished himself through active participation and meaningful contributions to national debates, describing his output as impressive for a first-term legislator.

The Adukromhene, who also serves as the Nifahene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, Ahunuabobrim Osuodomgya Otutu Ababio V, advised students to remain disciplined and focused as they transition into senior high school. “Stay focused, avoid bad company, and protect your future with discipline and hard work”, he urged.

The “Pens Down” programme brought together students, parents, traditional leaders and education stakeholders to celebrate BECE graduates while instilling discipline and responsibility as they await their results.

The event also marked the maiden edition of the initiative under the leadership of Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth since assuming office as MP in 2024, reinforcing his commitment to education and youth development in the Okere Constituency.