The Peoples Democratic Party has called on President Buhari to declare a state of emergency on security in order to address insecurity situation in the country. 

The PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus, made the appeal at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja while reacting to the open letter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to President Buhari. Secondus said the advice was necessary looking at the increasing rate of cases of killing and kidnapping across the country. 

He recalled the killing of the then female international aide worker and the recent killing of Funke Olakunrin daughter of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere. Secondus said that the worsen security situation between April and now had made concerned patriotic leaders to voice out their concerns.

These leaders, according to him, include Mr Obasanjo; the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan; Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka; and former governor of old Kaduna State, Balarabe Musa, among others.  Secondus described Mr Obasanjo’s letter as truth that could not be run away from, if the insecurity situation must be addressed.

“Former President Obasanjo in a timely tirade to the President on Monday raised all the issues and properly situated the security position in the country. He went further to highlight the implications of the current state of the nation and where we are headed if urgent steps are not taken.  “As National Chairman of the main opposition party I cannot agree less with the former President.

“I cannot agree less with him where he said among other things that Quote. The main issue, if I may dare say, is poor management or mismanagement of diversity which, on the other hand, is one of our greatest and most important assets…”.

Secondus said the PDP whole-heatedly associates itself with the position of the patriotic Nigerians.  “The PDP urges President Buhari to respond appropriately to their timely advisories by declaring state of emergency on security in the country and go further urgently to address the issues raised in Obasanjo’s letter. 

Secondus said the killing of Mrs Olakunrin was the high point of murdering of innocent Nigerians across the land.  “It certainly cannot be well for a nation that creates an ugly situation where a 94-year-old Nationalist would be burying her 58-year-old daughter.  “This certainly is not Nigeria of our dream.”

The Senate Ad hoc committee which is investigating the alleged misconduct of Senator Elisha Abbo has said that the victim slapped by the lawmaker in a viral video did not honour its invitation.

The Chairman of the panel, Senator Sam Egwu, who stated this at plenary on Wednesday, said all efforts to make both the assaulted lady and the shop owner appear before the committee did not succeed.

The former Governor of Ebonyi State said the embattled Senator refused to make submissions before the ad hoc panel because he said doing so would be subjudice.

He also said both the Commissioner of Police in charge of FCT and the lawyers to the victims also refused to make submissions, citing the same reasons.

Egwu, therefore, requested that the matter be stepped down pending the determination of the criminal case instituted against Abbo by the police.

The President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, who presided over the plenary, disagreed with Egwu stressing that the panel could go ahead with its work notwithstanding the court case.

Lawan said what the Senate was investigating was the alleged misconduct of its member and not the criminal case against him which is already being handled by the police.

Egwu, therefore, sought the permission of the leadership for appointment one-week extension to enable him to submit the report.

The Senate President granted the request.

A witness invited by the petitioners before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) has disagreed with the results of the last presidential election in Katsina State as claimed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the last presidential election, Atiku Abubakar.


Lawal Mohammed Danja, who said he served as PDP Collation Agent in Danja Local Government in Katsina State, was invited as the 55th witness of Atiku and his party.


Under-cross examination by lawyer to President Muhammadu Buhari, Dayo Akinlaja (SAN), the witness said he disagreed with the scores of the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC). as pleaded by the petitioners.

In their petition, Atiku and the PDP conceded that the APC defeated them in the presidential election, a position, Danja disagreed with,insisting that he did not agree with the results as quoted by the petitioners.

The organised Labour has directed its members in all the 36 states and Abuja to get ready for a total showdown with government should the negotiation on the adjustment from the new national minimum wage break down.

On its part, the government side is insisting on 9.5 percent salary adjustment for officers on grade levels 07-14 and 5 percent for those on grade levels 15-17.

The workers expressed concern that rather than presenting the two positions to technical subcommittee as agreed, but “Surprisingly, when the Technical Sub-Committee reconvened, the Government Side introduced a strange clause to the discussion insisting that the Term of Reference of the Committee was to work out the consequential adjustment of salaries of Public Servants based on the subhead provided for salaries in the 2019 Budget.”

All efforts by the Trade Union Side to persuade the Government Side to return to the right track of negotiation and agree on a realistic percentage increase proved abortive.”

“Thus, the Government Side deliberately created a stalemate and thereafter adjoined the meeting of the Technical Committee sine die.”

According to a communiqué, a copy of which was issued to newsmen, the workers said the downward review by labour was due to a promise by government to undertake a general salary review in no distance time.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the acting chairman and Secretary, Comrades Anchaver Simon and Alade Bashir Lawal.

The communiqué reads in part, “The Trade Union Side of JNPSNC has now resolved that the Federal Government should reconvene the meeting of the Technical Committee on Consequential Adjustment immediately so that it can conclude its deliberations and ensure that all Public Service Employees benefit adequately from the N30,000 new monthly National Minimum Wage signed into Law by Mr. President since April, 2019.”

Ekiti State Executive Council at its sitting on Wednesday, approved the clearing of over 1,554 hectares of Agricultural Land across 5 Local Government Areas (Oye, Irepodun/Ifelodun, Emure, Ido-Osi and Ilejemeje) to open up the axis for Farming and fulfil its readiness to partner with multilateral donors in developing agriculture in the state.

The Fayemi-led administration is determined to nurture and grow the transformational agribusiness value chain, that will enhance food security, employment opportunities and empower women and youths. It has met with development partners and representatives of foreign governments, including China, India and Belarus to bring increased trade, new markets, and sustainable development to Ekiti State.

The policy direction of the Fayemi-led administration is to reduce poverty, improve living conditions of Ekiti people and mobilize resources for the state’s economic and social development. As part of efforts to realise this laudable vision of transformation in the agricultural sector, the State Government has entered into a partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD), and International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) to participate in the implementation of FGN/IFAD Value Chain Development (VCDP).

The objective of the program is to enhance and improve the income and food security of poor rural households that are engaged in the production, processing and marketing of rice and Cassava on a sustainable basis.

There is also an agreement with the World Bank/FGN sponsored Agro-processing Productivity Enhancing and Livelihood Improvement Support Programme (APPEALS) with the overall objective of enhancing the transformational Agric Value Chain Development of Ekiti State, particularly in the areas of modernizing and upgrading the existing traditional and drudgery propelled agro-processing centres for maximum productivity.

With the plan to clear a significant land area, the government has shown its commitment to activate the agrarian potential of the state and create more jobs in the agricultural sector.

EFCC today arraigned Senator Albert Bassey, popularly known as OBA, before Justice A. A. Okeke of the Federal High Court, sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on a six-count charge bordering on money laundering.

The Senator appeared in court today, following a bench warrant issued on him by the same court on June 17, 2019, for breaching the terms of bail granted him by the Commission.

The case against the Senator is hinged on the allegation that he took possession of six vehicles worth N204million, at the instance of one Olajide Omokore, whose companies had contracts with the State Government, at the time.

Investigations revealed that the said vehicles were proceeds of crime and that he committed the offence while he doubled as the Commissioner for Finance, Akwa Ibom State and Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, in December 2012. It is an offence which contravenes Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.

The vehicles are, Infinity QX 56 BP, valued at N45million; Toyota Land Cruiser V8 BP, valued at N40million; Range Rover, valued at N40million; Toyota Hiace, High Roof, valued at N27million; Toyota Hiace High Roof, valued at N16million and Toyota Hilux 4×4, valued at N36million.

One of the counts against him reads: “That you, Albert Bassey, whilst being the Commissioner for Finance, Akwa Ibom State and Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, IMDLCC sometime in December 2012, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly took possession of a vehicle (Infinity QX 56 BP) valued at N45,000,000.00 at the instance of one Olajide Jones Omokore (whose companies had contracts with Akwa Ibom State Government at that material time), when you reasonably ought to have known that the said vehicle formed part of proceed of unlawful activity (to wit: corruption) and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.”

He pleaded “not guilty” to the counts. In view of his plea, prosecuting counsel, Mohammed Abubakar, prayed the court for a trial date, to enable the prosecution prove its case against him.

Defence counsel, Solomon Umoh, SAN, informed the court of his client’s bail application and moved same, praying the court to grant the defendant bail.

Umoh said: “The applicant in his application regretted the issuance of the bench warrant and explained his absence. The respondent has not disputed the fact that the applicant is on bail, granted him by the EFCC even as we speak.”

Responding, Abubakar strongly objected to the application on the ground that the terms of the bail application earlier granted the defendant by the Commission, were breached, hence the issuance of the bench warrant. He further urged the court to discountenance the submissions of Umoh and refuse the application. But after listening to the arguments canvassed by both counsels, the court discharged the bench warrant issued against the Senator and granted him bail.

While adjourning to July 2 and 3, 2019 for trial, Justice Okeke held that: “The defendant is hereby granted bail in the sum of N20million and one surety in like sum. The surety must have a landed property within the jurisdiction of this Court which will be verified by the court registrar, and the court registrar shall file the report of verification.”

The trial judge further ordered that the Senator should be held in EFCC custody, pending the fulfilment of the bail conditions.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal office, on Monday, June 24, 2019, arraigned one Owolo Onorouioghene Dan, a mobile application developer, before Justice Saliu Saidu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos. He was arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on stealing and money laundering to the tune of N186, 552, 909.00(One Hundred and Eighty-six Million, Five Hundred and Fifty-two Thousand, Nine Hundred and Nine Naira.

The complainant, Covenant University, Otta, Ogun State, alleged that the defendant, who was a seconded staff of the Vice Chancellor of the University, was engaged on October 12, 2016 to create an e-payment platform, which he tagged  Sanwo Payment Platform.

However, the defendant, who was also operating and managing the platform, allegedly diverted from the payment platform a sum of N186, 552,909 to various bank accounts domiciled in Zenith Bank Plc and Ecobank Plc between December 2017 and February 2019.

One of the counts reads: “That you, Owolo Onorouioghene Dan, between 10th day of July, 2018 and  18th day of February, 2019 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, retained the aggregate sum of N122,748.00 (One Hundred and Twenty-two Million , Seven Hundred and Forty-eight Naira) in your Zenith Bank account number 2213999627, which sum forms part of your unlawful act to wit: stealing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 15 (2) (a) of  the Money Laundering Prohibition Act.”

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Ebuka  S. Okongwu, asked the court for a trial date and also prayed that the defendant be remanded in prison custody pending the hearing and determination of the case.

However, counsel to the defendant, E. O. Bintu Oyobio, prayed the court for a short date for mention of the bail hearing.

Governor Nyesom Wike has said that Rivers State is a Christian state and that he will not apologise for saying that. The governor stated this on Sunday June 23rd during the Lord’s Chosen Crusade at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Speaking at the programme, Governor Wike said the forces of darkness invaded the state and attempted to rob the mandate of the people, but God stood firm.

“We saw forces, but the greater force, God Almighty came. With this crusade. Rivers State will be abundantly blessed. I repeat once again without apologies, Rivers State is a Christian State. That is why nobody can touch us. When it mattered most, the Christian community prayed and God heard your prayers. I will continue to support the activities of all Churches. This Government will always partner with the churches , whatever the programme they are engaged in. I urge the Church to continue to pray. Each time you pray, put us in your prayers”, he said.

He said that God prevailed in Rivers State on March 9th during the governorship election and took charge of the state.

“On March 9th light prevailed over darkness. God showed himself and he is in charge. But for God, I wouldn’t have been here addressing the Christian faithful. The enemies came to Rivers State to take over the state and stop the will of the people. But God said no and the will of the people prevailed “, he said.

Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Co (SNEPCo) Managing Director (MD) Bayo Ojulari has said between $40 billion and $200 billion Nigeria needs to bridge its energy gap.

He said a nation without a secured energy system could not claim to have power.

In his presentation titled: “Nigeria’s energy security and sustainable development in Nigeria: The way forward”, at the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum 2019 in Abuja, Ojulari lamented that 70 per cent of the country’s installed electricity capacity is lost without reaching consumers.

According to him, because of aging equipment and vandalism, 70 per cent of the populace has less than four hours electricity daily.

He said: “Energy is not standing alone, it is about its impact on the society.”

Ojulari said in the next 10 years, energy demand is expected to double, adding that by 2050, solar could emerge as the dominant power energy source. But oil and gas need would continue.”

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Group managing Director Dr Maikanti Baru said despite abundant oil and gas reserves, the country still experiences shortages in electric power.

According to him, based on Nigeria’s Energy consumption current forecast, statistics showed an increase from 6GW in 2015 to 30GW by 2025. The primary source of the current power supply, he added, is hydro and gas.

Baru insisted that the future consumption, which is expected to drive growth by 2025, would need aggressive development of gas and renewable projects to meet the exponential demand.

The Kaduna State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kajuru after fresh violence broke out in some parts of the local government recently.

A spokesman to the Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, Samuel Aruwan, made the imposition of the curfew known in a statement he released on his Facebook page this morning.

“Following events in Kasuwan Magani, the dusk to dawn curfew that has been in place in Kajuru LGA had been extended to 24-hours in the entire local government area. The 24-hour curfew in the entire Kajuru LGA is with immediate effect, and will be enforced until further notice,” Aruwan wrote.

Recall that two weeks ago, armed men suspected to be kidnappers, stormed the Kajuru Resort Center and killed two persons, a Nigerian, Mathew Oguche, and his British Humanitarian worker girlfriend, Faye Mooney.

The Kaduna State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kajuru after fresh violence broke out in some parts of the local government recently. 

A spokesman to the Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, Samuel Aruwan, made the imposition of the curfew known in a statement he released on his Facebook page this morning.

“Following events in Kasuwan Magani, the dusk to dawn curfew that has been in place in Kajuru LGA had been extended to 24-hours in the entire local government area. The 24-hour curfew in the entire Kajuru LGA is with immediate effect, and will be enforced until further notice,” Aruwan wrote.

Recall that two weeks ago, armed men suspected to be kidnappers, stormed the Kajuru Resort Center and killed two persons, a Nigerian, Mathew Oguche, and his British Humanitarian worker girlfriend, Faye Mooney.

Suggest Article   Article comments   Print Article share this text on fb share this text on Twitter percentage this article on Google+ proportion this newsletter on Linkedin percentage this newsletter on StumbleUpon share this text on delicious proportion this newsletter on Digg percentage this newsletter on Reddit share this newsletter on Pinterest expert author Larry M. Lynch
Olympic Medals in Colombia

via the way, did you watch any of the beyond month's Beijing, China Olympic events? I did and so did the giant majority of my English as a overseas Language novices. They paid special interest, as did maximum Colombians, to the silver medal in weightlifting received by Diego Fernando Salazar and the bronze medal in women's wrestling gained with the aid of Jackeline Renteria. Colombia's only gold medal ever turned into received in Sydney in 2000 in women's weightlifting by means of Maria Isabel Urrutia who is now a congresswoman and sports suggest. doubtless your learners could speak enthusiastically about the medals and activities wherein your specific usa fared properly, or no longer, as the case may be.

Which Olympic activities did you get to observe? even though I failed to get to look tons of the video games and occasions, I did get opportunities to briefly take a look at out men's and women's seaside volleyball seeing each win the gold for the united states. I caught Michael Phelps swimming to 3 of his 8 gold medals. The javelin throw, ladies's excessive bounce and pole vaulting also got brief insurance perspectives from me. The activities which most interested me I absolutely overlooked due to lack of nearby coverage here in Colombia or the time at which the events were aired locally. What approximately you? Did you get to see most of what you desired to?

What are Your favorite Olympic events?

What are your and your newbies' preferred Olympic sporting events? Why no longer listing and describe them, specifically if they may be now not too "mainstream activities in which you occur to stay and teach? My EFL novices have not a clue about maximum iciness and ice or snow-based totally occasions, in view that there may be clearly no snow in Colombia. The events gave enough possibility to delve into lesser-recognise or less popular wearing activities but raising learner awareness of what is practiced and famous - besides football - in other international locations. without a doubt myself, i love baseball, basketball, gymnastics and ballroom dancing (but it is not an Olympic event, but). Are there any specific sports activities which you do not like? maximum of my EFL rookies stated golfing, however it truly is rarely a surprise here. the game is developing to some extent given that there are numerous up and coming Colombian golfers on the international circuit.

Sorely overlooked Olympic events

some sorely-overlooked Olympic occasions included men's basketball - I failed to get to peer a unmarried sport! Fencing, wrestling, most of the high music and subject occasions - I didn't see the men's and ladies's relay teams fiasco that made the front web page sports activities information even right here. Archery, diving and the traditional Olympic marathon additionally escaped me, unluckily.

Why do you believe you studied that Olympics coverage doesn't characteristic most flashbacks and interviews with preceding record holders and former greats nonetheless residing but retired or now not competing? What ever happened to Mark Spitz and Carl Lewis, among many others? Did they try this and that i missed it due to the fact there was no coverage of that here?

Get Your EFL rookies worried

Have your EFL or foreign language freshmen research information, information and facts. allow them to report biographies and sporting event details or maybe demonstrations. detail activities and describe carrying events with which many of your earners can be unfamiliar. Have them give an explanation for why China gained so many gold medals; little Jamaica received 11 medals however Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama most effective one medal each whilst different nations may not have received any in any respect. Have them communicate about your united states of america's performance and how it is probably stepped forward or modified. you could and ought to use any carrying or cultural occasion to stimulate English language gaining knowledge of among your college students, giving them spontaneous discourse retailers for extemporaneous speech. it is one of the many ways the Beijing, China Olympics impacted my English as a foreign language newbies in the course of this semester.

How approximately yours?

Prof. Larry M. Lynch is an EFL instructor teacher, intellectual development expert, prolific author, professional writer and public speaker. He has written ESP, foreign language learning, English language teaching texts and hundreds of articles used in extra than a hundred and twenty international locations. Get your free 7451f44f4142a41b41fe20fbf0d491b7, "if you need to educate English abroad, right here's What You need to know" and English language teaching and learning information at: http://bettereflteacher.blogspot.com - need a blogger or copywriter to promote your school, organization, service or business or an experienced writer and vibrant search engine optimization content to your website, weblog or e-newsletter? touch the author on the above blog cope with for extra facts.

advise Article   Article comments   Print Article share this text on facebook proportion this text on Twitter percentage this newsletter on Google+ percentage this article on Linkedin percentage this newsletter on StumbleUpon proportion this article on scrumptious percentage this newsletter on Digg share this text on Reddit share this newsletter on Pinterest expert author Duane Hatfield
anyone wants to realize the internal dealings of pinnacle producers. Many elements come into play and they're all legitimate and important yet there are  which might be non-public and at instances omitted. They aren't usually visible as a part of the procedure but they are key gadgets.

There are one of a kind motives some people usually earn the most profits. one among them is their mind-set toward getting to know. these people are seldom glad with the level of expertise they have in any vicinity of lifestyles. They sense there is continually extra expertise to be gained irrespective of how well they recognise the situation. The software of this expertise is likewise required but you ought to have the knowledge so that you can observe it. This preference to usually know matters higher and fuller, preserve their minds actively trying to develop in the ones regions. This in turn blocks the idle or nonproductive time they could generally have.

every other purpose is the leader they've come to be. Many people accept as true with leaders are born that manner. even though this may be partly proper, leadership trends are received and only positive leadership traits are genetic. these qualities make the acquired tendencies more effortlessly carried out and appear more natural. therefore the obtaining of management skills is feasible and required through all to be leaders. obtaining these comes from analyzing, studying about those who have end up or are leaders and the debts in their movements. analyzing offers knowledge and insight into how each reacted in damaging or complicated conditions as well as their mind-set and thinking procedure. In doing this we additionally open our personal minds to the possibility of the accomplishment of our "not possible" responsibilities. Seeing others reap matters past the norm strengthens our belief that it is feasible for us also.

together these movements are a crucial a part of generating top earnings and obtaining the position of management. it is so crucial to continuously be mastering extra and reading the writings of different leaders that with out both we can be at a stand still in our personal growth. We have to try to be greater informed and extra undoubtedly pushed than those around us or we can be as they're. so as to be greater we ought to do more, irrespective of wherein we follow it.

So what ever you try and do consider, the pinnacle earners are inexperienced persons and the top leaders are readers.

Akane Furukawa is an ESL student in Teacher Lisa Sparks' class.  Her daughter, Aoba Furukawa, is a student at Mills High School.  Aoba writes about the value of volunteering in this wonderful essay which she shares with us here.  Be inspired!

“Pay It Forward”-Volunteering camp

By Aoba Furukawa

Volunteering camp which I had in San Francisco was very inspiring, and it was a great experience. Before this camp, I didn’t really know how to help homeless people, and I didn’t know that even teens can help thousands of people. This camp was not only important for people who needed the help, but it was also important for me too because I got to know the reality of life and how it feels to help other people in general.

On the first day, I went to Youngblood and Coleman Park in San Francisco. The park was filled with many children, and it was very chill. I thought that the park was pretty clean. We took the gloves, tongs, buckets, and worked as a group. When I started, I only found food garbage, and a bottle of caps. However, when I started cleaning up the playground, I saw used needles, and I realized that it was a very dangerous thing, because little kids might touch it, or accidentally step on it. So I learned how to pick up the needle, because picking up the needle was also dangerous, and was a great experience for me. After I did the best as I can, I got to pick up three giant buckets of garbage. We found used condoms, used needles, saddle, shoes, and others.

On the second day, I went to Stow Lake in San Francisco. The park ranger told us to trim the garden, and I was a little nervous, because I had never tried it before, and I needed to use the pruning shears. At first, it was difficult for me to cut the branch, and thought about how much I needed to use the pruning shears. At first, it was difficult for me to cut the branch, and thought about how much I needed to cut. However, it was really fun when I got used to it, and I even made new friends. I got to socialize with many people, so it was a good opportunity to meet with new people.

On Wednesday, I went to the San Francisco food bank and backed rice. We divided the work. My work was to close the rice bag using the iron, label it, and put it in the giant box. We had to do it very quickly, and it nneded team work. Of course, we made a few mistakes such as spilling out the rice or putting the wrong amount of rice. Fortunately, my group packed about one hundred packages, and in total people, and whole group packed about 3000 packages.  It was a really great experience because I realized that it was actually fun, and I want to do that again.

On Thursday, I went to a Glide to help the homeless people. I wiped the tables, put the spoons, napkins, cups each table. I didn’t know what foods would be really delicious. There was a lot of chicken, bread, carrots, coleslaw, Caesar salads, and fruit. Although I couldn’t make the food, I served the the carrots and it smelled really good. When people came in, it was very busy that I couldn’t keep up with the carrots in same amounts. However, we never stopped so it made really tired, but a lot of people came to Glide to eat, but many Chinese people came, and children also came to eat too.

On the last day, I went to Ocean Beach to clean up the beach. Unfortunately, it was very cold that I was freezing. However, I had to pick up the garbage, and I was really tired. I was looking for garbage, but the beach was very clean. All I found was snack garbage, and an Ipad case, so it was a very tough day for me. However, I earned certification for volunteer hours, so I was really proud of myself, and I was glad of what had done during the week.

This camp was truly amazing. Because we needed to work as the team, I made new friends, and we tried our best. I learned that not only homeless people need free food, but normal people are also in need. I learned so many things, and I hope I can help other people in the future again.

Thank you, Akane and Aobe, for inspiring us to volunteer!

Wendy (on the left) smiling with SMAS classmates
while volunteering at the San Mateo Public Library

At San Mateo Adult School, students learn many skills to help them succeed.  Some students progress from the classroom to jobs.  They are learner to earner success stories.  

Wendy Yeung is one of these success stories.  She agreed to share her experience in order to help other students move forward toward their own goals.

Thank you, Wendy, for sharing your story! 


What is your name?  

 

Wendy Yeung

Where are you from - what country or part of the world?

 

I am from Hong Kong China. Hong Kong is in the south part of China and was a British colony for 100 years.

What classes did you take at San Mateo Adult School?  Who were your teachers?

 

I took Distance Learning class of teacher Cynthia, ESL Advanced Low Class of teacher Jessica, ESL Adv High Listen/speak Class of teacher Vasyl, ESL Advanced Writing class of teacher Lisa and Online class of teacher Carol.

What are your doing now - what is your job or volunteer work?

 

I am a multi-purpose clerk in Lucky Supermarket. I work in the Berkeley Deli Department. Although I have no experience on that before, but they give me a chance.

 

 

What helped you find this job or volunteer position?

 

My husband David inspired me to create my new life in America.  But no feedback from online job hunting. I went through a loss of confidence when i couldn't understand what other people were saying.

San Mateo Adult School opened a window for me to get to know American people and American culture. That is the first step for all new immigrant. so meaningful! The teachers of School let us study in English environment.

When I couldn't speak in English, my sister Jessica accompanied me to read aloud at home. When I was afraid to find a job in person, my friend Shirley encouraged me to go into the store to express myself. the most critical step is my families and friends' support.

 

I have to survive. I know deeply I want to live in a real life but not only American Dream.

What helped you the most at San Mateo Adult School?

 

The professional teachers at SMAS helped me the most.  Patricia Villar as a transition navigator said to me: You don't know what you can do, until you try.   Teacher Cynthia, Jessica  and Lisa taught me a lot of kinds of ways to learn English.   Teacher Vasyl told us more about American culture.

 

Do you have advice for other SMAS students - about learning English, looking for a job, taking risks, doing something new in the USA?  

 

New world, new life! That is what i think. I am not the best, but I will try my best.

And English Learning will stay with me for the rest of my life in America.

 

 

Thank you so much, Wendy, for sharing your experience.  Your advice is spot-on and will help many people.  Thank you!  

 

Click here to see more #Learner2Earner success stories.

Evening Student Council Board Member Simone Coelho shared this exellent speech at the 2018-19 Evening Candidate Forum.   Here, with her permission, is her speech:

Evening Student Council Board Member
Simone Coelho
Alt Text:  Smiling woman with
wavy brown hair and glasses
wearing a black jacket

Good Evening.

My name is Simone Coelho. I am running for president. I am here today requesting your vote to be the voice of each student here at San Mateo Adult School. I want to represent our school as well.

I am here today because I believe everybody deserves access to education and I stand for adult school.

I will be here to:

• Listen to your concerns.
• I will be bringing new ideas to our campus.
• Be hard working when it comes to make things happen.
• I will lead keeping in mind your interests.
• And most of all, I am eager to make adult school even better.

Again, my name is Simone. I humbly ask this evening for your vote.

Together we can make great things happen.

Thank you for listening!

Evening Student Council Vice President Olivia Velazquez shared her story and this stellar speech at the 2018-19 Evening Candidate Forum.   Here, with her permission, is her wonderful speech.

Evening Student Council Vice President
Olivia Velasquez
Alt Text:  Smiling woman with short hair
in white blouse, black tie and vest.

Good evening, students and staff members.  My name is Olivia Velasquez and I'm running for student council vice president.  I'm from Guadelajara, Mexico.  I'm remember my first months here.  I was a low beginning ESL student when I started in this school.  Now I'm a high intermediate student.  I worked hard and I learned that nothing succeeds if there is no effort.  

 

It probably won't surprise you that I have decided to run for student council for the role of vice president.  As student council vice president, I will strive to continue making improvements in this school, with my colleagues, for the benefit of all.  I know that the student council works side-by-side with the student body and the administration.  Today I am asking for your vote.  Should you elect me, I will listen to your concerns and work hard for you.  Thank you.

Thank you, Olivia, for sharing your speech and for making the commitment to serve our community!

Evening Student Council President Carlos Diaz shared his story and this fabulous speech at the 2018-19 Evening Candidate Forum.  The next day, he was elected Student Council President of the Evening Student Council.  Here, with his permission, is his wonderful speech.

Evening Student Council President
Carlos Diaz
Alt Text:  Smiling man with
short brown hair in jean jacket

Hello everyone!

My name is Carlos Diaz and I am running for student council President.

I'm from Mexico, more specifically a small town by the name of La Barca, located at the Southeast side of the state of Jalisco. I came to The USA 3 years ago, in August 2015.

I remember how difficult the beginning was, a different country, different people, new neighbors, new neighborhoods, the diversity of cultures and traditions, and the most remarkable thing: English as a new language.

Finding a new job is always a tough part of our lives, and that part increases when we don't know how to speak English, that's why I decided to start learning. Some of my friends told me about San Mateo Adult School, so I came to the Smart Center on 2016  and just signed up. I began at Low Beginning and since then have been studying at this school in the evening time. I am now in the High advanced level, still learning, improving my English and working on my skills.

I haven't run a campaign before. This is my first time running, trying to be the new president elect. I want to work hand-in-hand with all of the student council members; I want to work with all of you guys, listening to your suggestions, your ideas. I want to work not only as a president or member of the student council, I want to be your friend.

I really believe in the importance of adult education. I believe in people like you, like me. People who came from other countries in search of a better life and better opportunities. People have found here at San Mateo Adult School the opportunity to learn English, make and grow networks and be successful.

I want to continue with the legacy of my former colleagues who were presidents and members of the student council.

The promise I make to you is that I will do my best, being your voice, and being your representative, bringing the faith in every place and in every opportunity to talk about how important San Mateo Adult School is.

Please vote for me, Carlos Diaz, to be your Student Council President.

Thank you, Carlos, for sharing your speech and service!

A new year of student-led democracy has begun at San Mateo Adult School!

After a week of campaigning on campus and speeches at the Candidate Forum, SMAS ESL and GED students voted for new officers for the 2018-19 school year.  

The new leadership teams are:

Shereen, Shelley, Claudia
Alt Text:  Three women standing in bright sunlight
in the school quad

Morning Student Council

• President:  Shelley Cheng
• Vice President:  Shereen Lata
• Secretary:  Claudia Asselborn
• Advisor Ai Ikeuchi

Evening Student Council

• President Carlos Diaz
• Vice President Olivia Velazquez
• Secretary Victor Linares
• Advisor Simone Coelho

Victor, Olivia, Simone,  Stephanie, Tim, Carlos
Alt Text:  Six people standing in the school quad in the evening

Read speeches from the Candidate Forums:

• Morning President Shelly's speech
• Morning Vice President Shereen's speech
• Morning Secretary Claudia's speech

• Evening President Carlos Diaz
• Evening Vice President Olivia Velasquez
• Evening Advisor Simone Coelho

Outgoing Morning Student Council President Wendy Samayoa gave a special farewell speech and was presented with a special award by Teacher Adviser Stephanie Kriebel.  Read Wendy's speech.

* * * * * 

Student Council gives students a voice at school, in the community, and in the state.

• Morning and evening Student Councils. 
• Officers are elected in the Fall for a one-year term. 
• English Secondary Language and GED classes choose two Class Representatives. 
• Student Councils meet once a month. 
• At meetings, discussion and voting about decisions.
• Minutes are taken at the meetings. 
• Class Reps report back to their classes 
• Teacher Advisor: Stephanie Kriebel    

Learn more about SMAS Student Council on the Student Council page of the school website.

Morning Student Council Secretary Claudia Asselborn shared her story and her vision of teamwork and progress at the 2018-19 Morning Candidate Forum.  Here, with her permission, is her wonderful speech.

Claudia speaking at the Morning Candidate Forum
Director Tim listening in the background

Good Morning Director Tim, teachers and students! Thanks for coming!

I would like to introduce myself because although many people know me, others still don’t.

My name is Claudia Asselborn and I am running for Secretary of the Student Council.

I am from Argentina. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education. I worked as a substitute teacher and student counselor.  I also worked as an administrative assistant for eleven years in my country.

I came to California with my husband for his work. First, we lived in San Francisco for a few months, and then, we moved to San Mateo two years ago.  I've been studying English in San Mateo Adult School since then. I am Student Ambassador and joined in the program ESL City Government Academy.

My English was very poor, and to be honest, in my high school I was never a good English student. But studying English here in our school has changed my life! Learning English in a wonderful environment, in my opinion, is not only excellent, it is also a unique opportunity! Thanks all my teachers for teaching me.

Today, I am here in front of you because, as I said before, I am running for Secretary, and I would like to be part of the Student Council because I really enjoy creating ideas and working together as a team. I want to help organize activities to raise money for the Student Council and help our school. I am a friendly person, active, responsible, and helpful.

I promise to work together with the President and Vice President with openness and honesty.

Thank you for your time, thank you for listening me, and remember to vote for me:

Claudia Asselborn Secretary!

Thank you so much!

Leaders committed to serving the community:
Claudia, Shereen, Shelly, and City of San Mateo Mayor Rick Bonilla

Thank you, Claudia, for sharing your speech - and for your choice to serve and support the SMAS community!