Education is said to be the greatest equalizer, and this belief came to life when Kwame Agyenim Boateng, a journalist with OTEC 102.9 FM, mobilized support to pay the school fees of eleven brilliant but needy tertiary students. Through his annual “Back to School Campaign,” the journalist raised a total of GH₵11,200, an amount that was disbursed in collaboration with the Students Representative Council (SRC) of the OTEC School of Journalism and Communication Studies.
This year’s campaign focused on tertiary education, acknowledging the growing financial challenges that prevent many students from completing their courses of study. The initiative attracted contributions from benevolent individuals and groups, including Mr. Emmanuel Boakye Fampem, Chief Executive Officer of Fapem Constructions; Kwaku Owusu Boateng, popularly known as KOB, host of OTEC FM’s morning show; philanthropist Paa Frank from Kunsu; Akakpo Gerhard; and Mama Unice. Their combined support ensured that no student selected under the campaign would have to defer their education because of financial hardship.
At a presentation ceremony on Thursday, September 11, 2025, Kwame Agyenim Boateng handed over the funds to the SRC executives of the institution, who immediately processed payments for the beneficiaries. Speaking at the event, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors whose generosity had brought the vision of the campaign to life. He explained that the motivation behind the initiative was rooted in his conviction that education is a powerful tool for transforming individuals and communities.
“We are thrilled to support these brilliant but needy students. This initiative is about more than paying fees; it is about giving hope, building confidence, and opening doors to a brighter future. Our desire is that these students will focus on their studies, excel in their chosen fields, and one day extend the same helping hand to others,” Mr. Boateng stated.
The SRC President, Dickson Mensah, who received the funds on behalf of the student body, commended the effort and described it as a shining example of what collective responsibility can achieve. He explained that the SRC had established a scholarship account to provide continuous support for needy students and appealed to corporate bodies, institutions, and philanthropists to contribute to the fund. According to him, many students face severe financial difficulties that affect their studies, making partnerships such as this campaign essential for the survival of academic dreams.
“The campaign has brought immense relief to many of our colleagues, and we are extremely grateful to all who contributed. Education should not be a privilege for the few but an opportunity for all who are willing to learn. With more support, we can sustain this scholarship scheme and change many more lives,” he emphasized.
The Back to School Campaign, which has grown stronger with each passing year, stands as a testament to the impact of community-driven initiatives. It demonstrates that when individuals, media personalities, and institutions work together, they can break the cycle of poverty and open new pathways for success. For the eleven students who benefited this year, the payment of their fees represents not only financial relief but also encouragement that their society believes in their potential.
The initiative continues to serve as a rallying call for unity, philanthropy, and commitment to education. By investing in the future of young people, Kwame Agyenim Boateng and his partners have shown that education is indeed for all, and when barriers are removed, dreams can truly be realized.
