Mr Moyo Ogunlewe, Chairman, Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State, says no serious nation will ignore investment in education as the sector remains key to opportunities.
Ogunlewe made the remark while distributing 150 General Certificate Examination (GCE) Forms to indigent students in the council area.
According to him, his administration is keying into the educational policy of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEME agenda for the state to improve the standard of living.
Ogunlewe said when people were more educated, they could solve problems better.
“This means that society can progress at a faster rate.
“People with education can better understand the history of their society and its current economic conditions. As such, they may be more inclined to participate in politics and improve their country.
“Knowledge and talent are not for the rich and privileged alone. Free education widens the gates of opportunities to every child, especially those whose talents are arrested because of poverty,” he said.
He said with political will and responsible leadership, the government could help create a society of opportunities and empowerment for every citizen.
“I know that there is no better way to do so, but through access to education. Any country that aims to transform itself into a modern productive player in the global marketplace must get its educational policies right.
“Leadership is about choices- I have chosen to invest in the future of our youths. We have decided to use proceeds from our resources to help educate the young population to drive our economic transformation.
“Instead of the revenues ending up in the hands of a few people, the most equitable and progressive way of using these revenues is to educate and empower our population to strengthen our nation,” he added.
Ogunlewe said the council would organise coaching and sought scholarship for the brilliant ones among the beneficiaries.
Miss Akinola Favour, a 16-year old beneficiary, commended the chairman for the gesture, assuring him that she would work hard to come out in flying colours.
Babatunde Olumodeji, another beneficiary from Ilupeju Senior Secondary School, noted that the gesture had assisted indigent students.
Similarly, Julius Adekoya, a beneficiary from Ogudu Senior Grammar School, said the gesture would help a lot of people like him without money to write the external examinations.
Mrs Bolanle Alowonle, a parent of one of the beneficiaries, commended the council chairman for remembering the poor students. (NAN)
