American Rap icon Ja Rule, whose real name is Jeffrey Bruce Atkins, has partnered with the global non-profit organization, Pencils of Promise, to construct a new school in Ghana.

The initiative aims to establish a much-needed six-unit classroom block and additional facilities for the St. John’s Anglican Basic School located in Nuaso, Eastern Region.

Ja Rule demonstrated his dedication during the groundbreaking ceremony, expressing his joy in contributing to the community.

“I’m proud to be out here to have the audacity to come out here to build a school for my people,” Ja Rule said, adding “I know this will be an opportunity that will last for many years to come, this is just the beginning of something special.”

The event was graced by dignitaries such as the Deputy Minister for Arts and Tourism, who extended a warm welcome to Ja Rule and urged him to advocate for Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” campaign when he returns to the U.S.

The CEO of Pencils of Promise provided insights into why Nuaso was chosen for the project and outlined the project timeline. The CEO and his spouse were presented with traditional smocks as a sign of hospitality.

“This project for the Nuaso basic school will be a six-unit classroom block and washroom facilities,” the CEO said.

“It will take several months, we will get started in June. It may take a while, but before the end of the year, it’ll be done. We always think about places that need us the most, we can’t do every community every single time, we care for the communities that will partner with us, and we’ll do the work together.”