Increasing Student Enrolment, Reducing the Number of Out-of-School Children: Iperu Remo Education Trust Scheme Management Board to the Rescue

…As the Board Partners with Religious Leaders and Faith-based Organisations

By: Temitope Oyekan –

In a bid to increase student enrolment in public primary and secondary schools, reduce the number of out-of-school children, and lower illiteracy rates among the people, the Iperu Remo Education Trust Scheme Management Board has embarked on advocacy visits and sensitization campaigns to religious leaders and places of worship.

The board visited churches and mosques to sensitize religious leaders and their congregations on the importance of education and to seek their support for the board’s programs and activities. The visit began with the board’s attendance at the Christmas service at St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu, followed by its presence at the Jumu’ah service at Iperu Central Mosque on Friday, 3rd January 2025, and the mass at St. John’s Catholic Church, Iperu Remo, on Sunday, 5th January 2025.

It will be recalled that the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo ABIODUN, CON, after listening to the presentation by the Board Chairman, Mofopefoluwa JOSEPH, FRM, at the Christmas Service, commended him for his transparent leadership. He also praised the board for its commendable intervention in the education sector and pledged personal support for its programmes.

This innovative approach by the board recognizes the significant influence that religious leaders wield within their communities. By partnering with these leaders and organisations, the education board aims to leverage their authority and reach to promote a culture of education and learning.

Its efforts will, in the long run, help promote access to education for children who have hitherto been deprived of such opportunities, thereby reducing the number of out-of-school children, which stands at an alarming 18.3 million, according to UNICEF.

During these visits, the education board members engage in robust and meaningful interactive discussions with religious leaders and their congregations, highlighting the importance and benefits of education and the challenges faced by out-of-school children. They also provide information on the resources available to support students, including scholarships, educational materials, and counselling services.

The response from the religious communities and faith-based organisations has been overwhelmingly positive. Many religious leaders have pledged their support, promising to use their platforms to promote education and encourage parents to enrol their children in school.

At the Iperu Central Mosque, some members of the mosque praised the board’s initiative, describing education as the key to unlocking the potential of children, while promising to support the noble cause embarked upon by the board.

Similarly, the Christian communities have expressed their commitment to the partnership and pledged to ensure that their children receive a quality education. “We will work closely with the education board to make this vision a reality,” echoed the parishioners.

The education board’s efforts have also resonated with traditional worshippers, who have similarly embraced the board’s vision. The Board Chairman, Mofopefoluwa JOSEPH, FRM, in his address to traditional religion adherents at the Isese Day Celebration in August 2024, emphasized the importance of education in preserving the community’s cultural heritage. “Our children must learn to read and write so that they can document our history and traditions,” he said.

As the education board continues its outreach programme, there is a growing sense of optimism within the community. With the support of religious leaders, faith-based organisations, and all stakeholders, the board is confident of actualising its plans and achieving its goals, while creating a brighter future for the children.

By harnessing the power of faith and community, the education board is pioneering a new approach to promoting education and reducing illiteracy. As the initiative gains momentum, it is clear that this partnership will have a lasting impact on the community, empowering children to reach their full potential and build a better tomorrow.

To this end, it has launched an endowment fund with the goal of raising #100,000,000.00 in the 2025 fiscal year. Of this, #60,000,000.00 will be allocated to the board’s budget for the year, while #40,000,000.00 will be reserved as the endowment fund.

Among other projects, the board intends to execute the following initiatives in the coming year:

1. Create an enabling environment for teaching and learning by supporting the implementation of educational facilities and infrastructure in Iperu.
2. Promote access to quality education through the award of scholarships and grants to indigent students.
3. Organize programmes, workshops, and seminars for teachers, students, and parents.
4. Collaborate with schools in implementing projects and programmes that align with the educational needs of the community.
5. Establish partnerships with and secure funding from donor agencies and development partners.
6. Promote community engagement and involvement in education initiatives by encouraging parents and stakeholders to take an active role in their children’s education.

To support the board, donations can be made to the following account:

0284987989
WEMA BANK
IPERU REMO EDUCATION TRUST SCHEME MANAGEMENT BOARD

For inquiries, please contact:

08033030914
07032318947