A non-governmental organisation (NGO), LiRA Foundation has organised its 5th edition of the ‘Back to school’ programme for school children as the new academic calendar year begins.
Essential items including school bags, writing materials, sandals, water bottles, mathematical sets, and others were distributed to the students at the event held recently at CMS Primary School Compound, Ilaje, Bariga.
The theme of the event titled: “Develop a Child, Develop a Nation”, had in attendance dignitaries including the wife of Oworo monarch, Olori Oluwabukola Saliu; SSA to the Lagos State Governor on Technical and Vocational Education Board, Hon. Giwa Moore; APC chieftain, Hon. Dengel Anifowose.
Others include Teen motivation speaker and author, Hephzibah Oluwafolafemi Atilola; Young model, Nkwocha Princess, representatives of the National Youth Council of Nigeria; Member of the Governing Council, Federal University of Agriculture, Mubi, Adamawa State, Owolabi ‘Ajimomuya’ Oseni.
The Founder, Ruth Ayomide Lijirin in her remarks, emphasised that developing children remains very important to laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Nation.
Lijirin who is also the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Civil Engagement, thanked her principal for his relentless support for youths.
She further urged the schoolchildren to remain focused on their studies for them to achieve greater success.
Lijirin said: “We would like to thank the performing Mr Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu for his relentless support for the youth of the State. It is our prayer for God to continue to guide you, Sir.
“Your commitment to the cause of Education and Child Development is truly commendable. You are the embodiment of the values we seek to instil in the younger generation, for them to thrive better and further in life.”
In his goodwill message, Giwa Moore emphasised the need for youths to look beyond academic qualifications and focus on acquiring skills that will enable them to create jobs, rather than relying on scarce employment opportunities.
He said: “I was impressed by Ruth Lijrin’s tireless efforts in organizing this initiative and her dedication to making a positive impact. Her commitment to supporting underprivileged students is truly commendable.
“As an advocate for technical and vocational education, I believe that initiatives like this are crucial for building a skilled and prosperous workforce.”
The Guest Speaker, Hephzibah Atilola in her speech, inspired her peers at the event.
According to her, she got inspired by the zeal of a young female who took being courageous to the peak of recognition, by contesting in a competitive election, although lost to a male contestant.
Afterward, she took it upon herself to write and launch a book back in July, to motivate young females to be focused and strongly determined towards achieving greater goals at a young age.
In his message, Hon. Dengel described the back-to-school initiative as a step in the right direction that will put smiles on the faces of the school children and their parents who cannot afford the educational materials.
He said: “The convener is truly doing a great job ensuring the younger generation of children are getting the needed attention through her foundation and I will say that again and again that she’s doing a great job.
“I wish to encourage the recipients to focus on their education for them to attain their potential when and where necessary.”