Aiyedatiwa Reaffirms Pledge to Boost Education in Ondo
…… discontinues distribution of books, tablets, and sports equipment to public schools
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced his administration’s dedication to ensuring that each child within the state receives equal opportunity for high-quality education and personal growth, irrespective of their origins.
During the formal launch event for distributing educational resources and sports gear to public primary and junior secondary schools throughout all 18 local government regions of the state, held at St. James Mega Primary School in Irowo, Akure, Aiyedatiwa made these remarks.
The governor highlighted that among his administration’s highest priorities is guaranteeing that every child of school age within the state has access to high-quality education.
He mentioned that the flag-off ceremony was a key step in implementing the 2023 and 2024 UBEC/SUBEB intervention funds. He emphasized that this event wasn’t merely about ceremonially distributing books and supplies; rather, it marked an important move towards transforming the educational environment in Ondo State as part of his administration’s “OUR EASE” developmental plan focused on education.
The governor stated, “This allocation reflects our dedication to creating a future wherein each child, irrespective of their origin, enjoys unrestricted access to high-quality education.”
He stated that Ondo State has successfully obtained funds from the UBEC/SUBEB until 2024, resulting in significant advancements in educational infrastructure and procurement projects.
“I’m pleased to announce that Ondo State has successfully secured funds from both UBEC and SUBEB all the way until 2024 for various developmental initiatives. We’ve initiated significant infrastructure programs focusing on refurbishing and building new classrooms, supplying furnishings, and enhancing overall educational settings within our institutions,” he stated.
Included among the achievements were the building of classrooms in 43 educational institutions, improvement initiatives at 78 schools, acquisition of more than 8,000 student desks and chairs along with over 1,000 teacher’s furnishings, as well as the erection of Early Childhood Care and Development Education structures, boundary fences, and contemporary restroom facilities throughout multiple academic premises.
The Governor additionally pointed out the hiring of more than 2,100 teachers for both elementary and high schools, along with consistent training for instructors in areas such as Jolly Phonics, fundamental subjects, and digital skills enhancement.
He mentioned that “The primary objective of this initiative is to improve the functionality of our education system and simultaneously boost our pursuit of technological advancement.”
Likewise, we have emphasized the professional development and skill enhancement of educators, acknowledging that the caliber of an educational system cannot surpass the competence of its teaching staff.
This dedication is evident through the frequent training programs arranged to provide our educators with contemporary teaching techniques and proficiency in digital tools.
Our educators have undergone multiple rounds of training and continuous development programs focused on essential subjects such as Jolly Phonics, Science, Math, English Language, and digital literacy.
During the announcement regarding educational supplies, the governor mentioned that more than 75,000 textbooks and library resources covering subjects such as English, Mathematics, Basic Science and Technology, History, National Values, and Computer Studies have been distributed. Additionally, android tablets preloaded with current academic material were included in this initiative.
Acknowledging the significance of physical education, Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the exceptional achievements of the state in local and national school sports events. He also declared that athletic gear including soccer outfits, chessboards, swimwear, badminton racquets, and ping-pong sets would be distributed among 52 primary schools.
The Governor mentioned that the state administration has continually covered the WASSCE expenses for qualifying students to alleviate the financial strain on families and aid in the educational progression of pupils toward advanced education facilities.
He further stated that the government remains committed to fulfilling its duties towards public-funded higher education bodies to guarantee their smooth operation and competitiveness. Additionally, the administration persistently supports yearly scholarship, grant, and financial aid initiatives aimed at students from Ondo State attending universities nationwide.
During his welcoming speech, the Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, conveyed gratitude to the Governor for giving top priority to education via consistent co-funding and supportive policies.
Olabimtan highlighted the objective of attaining a 1:1 textbook-to-student ratio and encouraged all parties involved to guarantee the proper utilization of these resources.
Likewise, UBEC State Coordinator, Adams Olanike, who was present through his representative Aremo Ayodeji, highlighted the event as an illustration of the shared dedication to enhancing the educational sector.
He praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration for continually placing emphasis on education within the state, observing that this initiative will improve primary education services, encourage better physical well-being, and cultivate collaboration—essential elements for comprehensive child growth.
In his goodwill address, Friedrich Akintoroye, representing the Association of Primary School Health Teachers of Nigeria, characterized the event as much more than merely distributing resources; it was a strong endorsement of the governor’s commitment to advancing and reshaping the educational sector.
Sola Adubi, representing Alhaji Abimbola Omoloja, the State Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA), also addressed the gathering. She extended her gratitude to the governor for implementing programs that alleviate financial strain on parents. She highlighted that providing educational and athletic resources would significantly benefit numerous households.
Dr. Ade Omololu, who serves as the Chairman of the Forum of Education Secretaries, praised the Aiyedatiwa-led administration for its active involvement in backing fundamental education by promptly providing matching funds. He disclosed that this dedication from the state has resulted in newly awarded contracts for school infrastructure development projects lately.
Omololu further guaranteed that the disseminated resources would be fairly allocated, appropriately utilized, and diligently preserved to enhance the learning experience for students throughout the state.
The notable attendees at the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; and the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, along with several others.
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