Kwara Gov’t pledges to strengthen education through strategic partnerships

By Muyideen Aliyu

The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the education sector through sustained investment and strategic partnerships aimed at improving learning conditions and expanding access to quality education.

Speaking during a notebook distribution event organized by the Adeta Primary School Old Pupils’ Association in Ilorin, the State Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, described education as a collective responsibility.

She emphasized that the sector requires active collaboration between the government, local communities, alumni associations, and private organizations to thrive.

Dr. Nuru highlighted that the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to implement impactful reforms, such as the abolition of basic education school fees and the provision of free textbooks for pupils from Primary One through Primary Six.

She further noted that the state has prioritized the renovation of classrooms and sanitation facilities in public schools across the region.

The Commissioner also acknowledged the vital role of non-governmental organizations and community initiatives, noting that several programs now sponsor students for external examinations like WASSCE, NECO, and JAMB, effectively easing the financial burden on parents and guardians.

Earlier in the program, the Chairman of the Adeta Old Pupils’ Association, Alhaji Shehu Ibrahim, explained that the distribution of exercise books and uniforms was funded entirely by donations from members and supporters.

He stated that the initiative reflects the association’s dedication to supporting less privileged pupils and promoting grassroots educational development.

Ibrahim commended the state government for its infrastructural upgrades, specifically noting that Adeta Primary School has been elevated to an international standard.

However, he appealed for the formal accreditation of the school as a center for WASSCE and NECO examinations to allow students to test within their own familiar learning environment.

In an effort to foster community pride, Ibrahim proposed a unified identity for schools within the Adeta area, including standardized uniforms and the adoption of the name Progressive Schools across the primary, junior, and senior secondary levels.

Professor Nuru Saka also praised Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative leadership for making education more inclusive and accessible.

He lauded the alumni association’s empowerment efforts, while the Commissioner further supported the cause by donating 100 school uniforms for indigent pupils.