As schools resumed in Kwara State on Monday, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, wife of the Governor, in partnership with the Sandal Initiative Project (SIP), distributed footwear to needy pupils in selected public schools across the state.
Speaking at the symbolic presentation in Ilorin, AbdulRazaq said the intervention was designed to ease the burden of parents and guardians who struggle to provide basic school items for their children.
She noted that many children face the daily challenge of blistered feet from worn-out slippers, which often leads to discomfort, distraction in class, or even absenteeism.
According to her, the gesture goes beyond comfort.
“It symbolises the commitment of the state and the Ajike People Support Centre to ensure that every child walks confidently into the classroom,” she said.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, disclosed that the footwear were produced in Ilorin as part of government’s efforts to promote local content.
“This initiative will sustain attendance and increase enrolment in schools. Things as little as school shoes have caused some pupils to stay away from classes. We cannot overemphasise what footwear means to children of the needy. This is giving the needy what they need,” the commissioner said.
The convener of the Sandal Initiative Project, Mr. Ibrahim Kale-Jimoh, explained that the project was designed to promote punctuality and reduce low self-esteem among pupils.
Beneficiaries, including Tunmise Oyeniyi and Ayuba Amos, expressed gratitude to the sponsors.
“It feels good to know that I have a new pair of sandals to start the new academic session. I am very grateful to the governor’s wife and the SIP project,” Oyeniyi said.
