Investing in Future Leaders
FTL’s Philanthropic Initiative Enhances Education at Aberdeen Municipal Junior Secondary School
In a heartfelt demonstration of Corporate Social Responsibility, Freetown Terminal Limited (FTL), a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL), donated 100 benches and desks to the Aberdeen Municipal Junior Secondary School on Friday, March 14, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the company’s annual Solidarity Day celebrations. This year, the emphasis of the celebration is centered on education, a critical initiative given the pressing needs of the school, which found itself in dire need of furniture.
The event attracted a gathering of students, teachers, community members, and corporate representatives, all of whom witnessed a moment that was sure to leave an indelible mark on the institution. The donation was a well-timed blessing, aimed at fostering an improved learning environment for students who have long struggled with insufficient infrastructure. The initiative represents FTL’s commitment to uplift educational standards and facilitate academic success among the children of Aberdeen.
The General Manager of FTL, Maroun Abi Aad, conveyed the company’s motives during the handover ceremony. He stated, “As we celebrate Solidarity Day, we take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the countries where we operate. It is our hope that through the support of education, we can lay the groundwork for a brighter future. The benches and desks we are providing today will become invaluable tools that contribute to our children’s success.” His comments underscore the belief that education is a cornerstone of societal development, and that corporate entities have a crucial role in fostering educational opportunities.
Additionally, Captain Fabjanko Kokan, the Country Manager for Africa Global Logistics, underlined the transformative potential of education for the continent. “Education is at the heart of Africa’s transformation. We want our students to realize their potential and understand that they can change the world,” he said. “Nothing is impossible with hard work and dedication. Together, we can succeed in bringing about meaningful change.” Kokan’s words resonated deeply with the students, providing them with inspiration and motivation to seize their educational opportunities wholeheartedly.
As the event progressed, the significance of the donation was echoed by other attendees. Victor Rogers, a senior teacher at the junior secondary school, expressed his gratitude to FTL for the much-needed support. He said, “This donation will not only help us improve our learning environment but will also motivate our students to take their studies seriously.” Rogers appealed for additional support, particularly in addressing the school’s urgent need for roof repairs, acknowledging that while the new benches and desks represent a significant improvement, lasting change also requires infrastructure attention.
The Principal of Aberdeen Municipal Junior Secondary School, Peter Manso Samura, emphasized the importance of corporate engagement in educational development. “Responding to corporate social responsibility requires resilience, and we are truly proud to have received such generous support from FTL. This philanthropic gesture will go a long way in enhancing the educational experience for our students,” Samura noted. His remarks reflect the collective ambition to build a sustainable future for the school and its pupils through continued partnerships with businesses.
Adding a personal touch to the event was Abdulai Bangura, who played an integral role in organizing the Solidarity Day initiative. His own origins as a former student of the school lent an emotional significance to the occasion. Bangura encouraged the students to embrace their education earnestly. “Treat your education with seriousness. Focus on your studies, and set your sights on achieving higher goals,” he told the students, reminding them of the power of determination and hard work in shaping their futures.
Among the students who attended the ceremony was Andrew Tarawallie, a junior secondary school pupil who thanked FTL for their incredible donation. His youthful enthusiasm and commitment were evident as he assured the assembly that the new furniture would be put to good use. “Thank you for these benches and desks. We promise to utilize them to learn and succeed,” Andrew stated matter-of-factly, embodying the vibrant hope of his classmates for a brighter academic experience.
The donation of the benches and desks signifies more than just the provision of physical furniture; it symbolizes a partnership between educational institutions and corporate entities aimed at building a better future for young learners. As education becomes increasingly paramount in today’s world, it is vital for businesses to recognize their role in contributing to the development of society. FTL’s initiative not only reflects a deep understanding of such a responsibility but also creates a platform for ongoing cooperation with educational establishments.
This year’s Solidarity Day celebration proves to be a pivotal moment not just for FTL and Aberdeen Municipal Junior Secondary School, but for the broader community as well. As students sit at the new desks and create memories and knowledge that will carry into their futures, the company’s involvement will be remembered as a critical stepping stone toward academic enhancement and personal growth.
Looking ahead, it is essential for educational stakeholders and corporate partners to foster collaborative initiatives that enrich not only the physical infrastructure of schools but also the spirit of learning among students. With FTL setting such a precedent, it is hoped that more organizations will follow suit, recognizing that supporting education ultimately leads to the empowerment of communities and the betterment of society at large.
Freetown Terminal Limited’s donation of 100 benches and desks epitomizes a commitment to nurturing future generations through education. As Aberdeen Municipal Junior Secondary School faces its challenges with renewed vigor and optimism, the importance of such corporate contributions cannot be overstated. Through solidarity, support, and shared responsibility, the seeds of change have been sown, paving the way for a future rich with potential and promise.
