As schools across Ondo State resumed on Monday, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Mr. Gbenga Fasua, donated over 10,000 notebooks and 500 school bags to support indigent pupils within the council area.
Fasua, who also serves as the state chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), said the initiative is part of his administration’s commitment to improving access to quality education at the grassroots.
Speaking at the distribution event held at the council secretariat in Akure, Fasua launched the Dr. Fasua Educational Ease Agenda, a back-to-school initiative aligned with Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa’s EASE Agenda for education reform.
“This gesture is aimed at easing the burden on parents and ensuring that every child has the basic tools needed to succeed in school,” he said. “Education thrives when communities, parents, and teachers work together. We are investing in our children’s future.”
Beneficiaries included pupils from both public and private schools in the local government area. Fasua emphasized that the distribution is only the beginning of a broader plan that includes improving school infrastructure, offering scholarships, and providing training for teachers.
“To our teachers, thank you for your dedication. please distribute these materials responsibly. And to our pupils, take care of these items and stay focused on your studies,” he added.
Fasua also praised Governor Ayedatiwa for his leadership and continued support for education, urging stakeholders to remain committed to developing the sector.
Nigeria continues to face systemic challenges in education, with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) estimating over 10.5 million out-of-school children nationwide. Many of these children are unable to attend school due to poverty and lack of basic materials.
Local interventions such as Fasua’s donation are seen as vital in bridging the gap, especially in rural and underserved communities.
