By Correspondent.
An educationist, Alhaja Romoke Adedokun, has urged the Federal Government to make education free at all levels as a strategic move to reduce the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Adedokun, Proprietress of Adedokun International Schools, made the appeal on Friday during the school’s valedictory ceremony for outgoing SS3 students in Iyana-Iyesi, Ogun State. The event is themed “Unbound: Class of 2025 Graduation.”
She identified poverty and the inability of parents,especially those with children in public schools,to meet basic educational needs as major drivers of the out-of-school crisis.
“The Federal Government needs to return to the era when it provided essentials such as school uniforms, textbooks, chairs, and tables.
“At the tertiary level, the reintroduction of subsidised meals, like the three square meals offered in the past, would also go a long way.
“If the government can subsidise learning materials and other key educational inputs, we’ll see a drastic reduction in the number of children roaming the streets,” she said.
Adedokun cautioned that the quest for modernisation and global competitiveness must not distract the government from its core obligation of properly funding education.
She commended the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for prioritising technical and vocational education, describing it as a vital pillar for national development.
“Countries that are technologically advanced began their journey by embracing technical and vocational education early. Nigeria must do the same,” she said.
She further called for an increased budgetary allocation to the education sector to improve both its quality and accessibility.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the school, Mr. Niyi Adedokun, encouraged parents to inspire their children to pursue academic excellence, particularly by aiming for first-class degrees.
“Such distinction opens doors to job opportunities and scholarships—both locally and abroad,” he noted.
He advised the graduating students to maintain discipline, attend lectures regularly in their future academic pursuits, and be worthy ambassadors of the school.
In his remarks, the school principal, Dr. Mike Fatukasi, congratulated the 92 graduating students for their resilience, adaptability, and determination throughout their academic journey and urged them to see education as a tool for driving positive change in Nigeria and the world.
Our correspondent reports that a recent UNICEF report puts the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria at approximately 18.3 million.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
