In line with its dedication to social impact and community development, Access Holdings Plc has taken another pivotal step in its mission to uplift vulnerable children through education. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Access Holdings recently donated two coaster buses to Bethesda Child Support Agency, solidifying a partnership that has been instrumental in transforming the lives of underprivileged children across Nigeria. The handover ceremony took place at Access Towers in Victoria Island, Lagos, and was attended by key representatives from both organisations.
The generous donation accentuates Access Holdings’ unwavering commitment to providing quality education to 1,000 disadvantaged children—a core element of its CSR strategy that has been in place for over a decade. The newly acquired buses will play an essential role in Bethesda’s daily operations, ensuring that children have safe, reliable transportation to and from school. By addressing this critical need, Access Holdings is actively removing one of the significant barriers to education, thereby enabling these young minds to focus on learning and personal development.
The Human Resources and Executive Office team at Access Holdings, comprised of about 20 dedicated employees, have channeled resources—primarily from their personal funds—into this CSR program over the past few years. Their efforts have not only provided educational support but have also extended to healthcare and essential services, creating a comprehensive safety net for children in underserved communities. This partnership exemplifies the power of collective action, where corporate initiatives transcend mere philanthropy to make a lasting, positive impact on society.
During the handover ceremony, Victor Willie, Head of Government & Stakeholder Relations at Access Holdings PLC, spoke passionately about the significance of the collaboration: “This partnership with Bethesda Child Support Agency goes beyond a simple act of charity; it’s about creating real, lasting change. The buses we’ve donated are not just vehicles; they are tools of transformation. By enabling more children to access education, we are investing in the future of our nation and breaking the cycle of poverty that traps so many young lives.”
With an estimated 10.5 million children out of school in Nigeria, Access Holdings’ initiatives are addressing a critical national issue. For many of these children, the opportunity to attend school represents more than just an education; it is a safeguard against the dangers of exploitation and a beacon of hope for a better future. By providing essential transportation, Access Holdings is not only facilitating access to education but is also contributing to the broader goal of creating a more just and equitable society.
Pastor (Mrs.) Nkoyo Rapu, the visionary founder of Bethesda Child Support Agency, expressed heartfelt appreciation for Access Holdings’ continuous support: “Access Holdings has been an invaluable partner in our mission to educate and empower vulnerable children. This latest donation of buses will have a profound impact, enabling us to reach more children and provide them with the education they so desperately need. This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when organisations commit to social responsibility and community upliftment. Together, we are opening doors of opportunity and changing lives.”