Chairman of Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, Gbenga Fasua, has affirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting quality education in the council area as schools resumed for the 2025/2026.

He stated this while distributing 10,000 books and 500 school bags to indigent pupils in both public and private schools in the Akure South Local Government Area on Tuesday.

Mr Fasua, who is also the state chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), emphasised that education was the bedrock of development in any society.

He said that his administration initiated the plans to ease the burden of parents in getting school and learning materials for their children with donations of the free books and bags.

 According to him, the state government, led by Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in 2023 launched several initiatives under his agenda to improve access to quality education, focusing on reducing dropout rates and supporting indigent pupils.

The chairman added that the local councils were following suit to complement the state’s government efforts, especially through the grassroots-oriented educational support.

 According to him, education thrives when parents, teachers, and communities work together.

He stated, “One of the biggest obstacles for many families is the cost of school materials, which can prevent children from attending school. Our goal is to ease this burden and show every child that their education is valued. So, I am honoured to launch the Dr Fasua Educational Ease Agenda, our Back-to-School initiative in the Akure South Local Government Area. Today, we are beginning the distribution of school bags and notebooks to pupils in both public and private schools in our local government area. This initiative aims at equipping every child with the necessary materials as they return to school, ensuring they are prepared and confident. It is part of our commitment to improve access to education and reduce dropout rate.’’

Mr Fasua also lauded Mr Ayedatiwa for his leadership and support, urging the parents and teachers to handle the materials with care.

 He, however, promised that the local government would also improve school infrastructure and support education by providing teacher training, and offer scholarships for pupils.  

(NAN)