The Ogun State Government has commenced the disbursement of a N10,000 cash award to 100,000 primary and secondary school students enrolled in over 2,000 public schools across the state’s four divisions.
Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, revealed this development while overseeing the distribution of funds in various schools in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Wednesday.
He emphasized that the payment fulfills a pledge made by Governor Dapo Abiodun to provide financial assistance to indigent students attending primary and secondary schools in the state.
Arigbabu emphasized that this initiative is part of the governor’s strategy to alleviate the financial burden on parents amid the prevailing economic challenges in the country.
“In light of the economic circumstances, the governor has opted to alleviate the plight of the state’s residents through various means. He believes that utilizing the health and education sectors is an effective approach to reach those in need of assistance. Through the education sector, we can directly assist those requiring support,” stated Arigbabu.
He further explained that the disbursement covers 100,000 students across all primary and secondary schools in the state, with each student receiving N10,000. Arigbabu highlighted that parents are being notified of the governor’s benevolent gesture as the funds are being electronically transferred.
“The governor’s aim is to alleviate the financial strain on parents in meeting their children’s educational needs,” Arigbabu affirmed.
Regarding the selection process, the Commissioner clarified that it was conducted objectively. Teachers, who are intimately familiar with the students, were tasked with identifying those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.