The Sunshine State (Ondo StaGovernor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has launched the distribution of learning materials, digital devices, and sports equipment to public primary and junior secondary schools, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.
The event, held at St. James Mega Primary School, Irowo, Akure, marked the commencement of the 2023 and 2024 UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects across the state’s 18 local government areas.
Addressing stakeholders, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the initiative aligns with the education agenda under his administration’s “OUR EASE” framework, focused on ensuring that all children, irrespective of socioeconomic background, benefit from improved educational standards.
“This is a deliberate step toward improving learning outcomes and ensuring that no child is left behind. Every public school in this state deserves the tools and environment necessary for academic growth,” he said.
He disclosed that Ondo State is among the few in the country to have accessed UBEC/SUBEB intervention funds up to the 2024 cycle. This access has enabled the execution of wide-ranging infrastructure projects, including the construction of classroom blocks in 43 schools and renovations in 78 schools. The state has also provided over 9,000 units of furniture, built perimeter fencing, toilet facilities, and early childhood care centres in multiple locations.
The governor noted that the materials distributed include over 75,000 textbooks in core subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, Basic Science and Technology, History, National Values, and Computer Studies. In addition, Android tablets loaded with curriculum-based content have been introduced to promote digital learning.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also announced the distribution of sports equipment to 52 basic schools, including football kits, chess boards, swimming gear, badminton sets, and table tennis equipment, describing it as part of efforts to encourage physical development alongside academics.
According to the governor, regular capacity-building programs have been instituted to enhance teachers’ proficiency in core subjects, phonics, and digital literacy.
“The strength of our education system rests on the quality of our teachers. We remain committed to supporting them through continuous training and professional development,” he added.
He reiterated the government’s policy of covering the WASSCE fees for qualified students, stating that the move aims to ease the financial burden on families while promoting access to higher education. He further affirmed the administration’s continued support for state-owned tertiary institutions and ongoing scholarship and bursary programs for students of Ondo origin.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB), Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, acknowledged the governor’s consistent backing of the basic education sector, highlighting the strategic goal of achieving a one-to-one textbook-to-learner ratio.
