From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Following the announcement of Saturday, August 16, 2025, by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the date for the senatorial bye-election in Anambra South to replace the seat declared vacant following the demise of Ifeanyi Ubah, an aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Chinedu Nsofor, has promised to sponsor a “Work while in School” bill if elected.
Nsofor, speaking to newsmen on his manifesto, said the bill is designed to revolutionise the educational sector and provide lasting solutions for students across Nigeria.
“As I have formally declared my intention to run for Senate, I believe it is important to begin unveiling the key legislative priorities I intend to pursue if elected. At the top of this list is a transformative bill titled ‘Work While in School’.
“We know the weight of poverty and the limits it places on the dreams of our young people, especially after they have graduated from school. I know the pain of potentials wasted because of a system that fails to empower our students. That is why, as your Senator, I will make education the cornerstone of our revival, not just in theory, but in practical, transformational ways that create real opportunities,” he assured.
Nsofor described the “Work While in School Initiative Bill” as a bold step that will allow youths to work and earn while still pursuing their education.
“I will push this initiative with all my strength, because I believe that no student should have to choose between learning and surviving. Through this bill, I will give our youths the power to fight poverty with their own hands.”
He said he will ensure that the educational system doesn’t just teach students to pass exams, but rather equips them with digital skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, and hands-on work experience that make them job creators, not job seekers.
“I will partner with local businesses, digital platforms, and tech hubs to open doors for our students to intern, learn, and earn, all while staying in school.
“By connecting learning with real work opportunities, I will help our young people to maximise their talents, harness technology, and grow into successful entrepreneurs right from the classroom. This is how I will plant the seeds of job creation in every community across Anambra South.”
Nsofor, who vowed that his salary as a legislator will be given out to the poor when elected, said he will also push for the establishment of community-based innovation centres where students can access tools, mentorship, and startup grants.
“When I say I will invest in education, I don’t mean more chalk and desks, I mean life-changing access to opportunity, modern education, and community-based entrepreneurship.
“Let them say I don’t have millions, but I have a mission; let them say I don’t have political godfathers, but I have the children of this land to fight for; let them say it’s not possible, but I say a new Anambra South is already on the horizon,” Nsofor stated.