Josephine Piyo, Deputy Governor of Plateau State, has commended Oando Foundation for its ongoing commitment to re-integrating out-of-school children through its Foundational Learning Improvement Programme (LEARNOVATE-FLIP) initiative.
Piyo, speaking during the official handover of back-to-school materials in Jos, Plateau State, described the intervention as a vital support for children who had been excluded from educational opportunities, aligning with the State’s commitment to expand access to inclusive and equitable basic education.
“Today marks a significant step in our collective efforts to improve the quality of education in Plateau State. It is heart-warming to witness the commitment of organisations such as the Oando Foundation in supporting the education sector.
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“Education is the key to unlocking the potential of every child and paving the way for a brighter future. By providing back-to-school learning materials to enrol out-of-school children, we are giving them the tools to succeed in life,” she said.
Besides, the Deputy Governor said the Oando Foundation’s dedication to promoting education and empowering communities is truly commendable.
“This distribution of learning materials will have a profound impact, not only enhancing learning but also instilling a sense of confidence and belonging in every child reached,” Piyo noted.
The Oando Foundation donated over 1,000 back-to-school kits to newly enrolled out-of-school children across communities in Jos North and Mangu Local Government Areas in Plateau State recently.
Each kit includes backpacks, stationery sets, exercise books, handwriting books, school uniforms, and sandals, all aimed at improving school readiness and supporting learning continuity for vulnerable children.
Tonia Uduimoh, Head of Oando Foundation, commenting on the ongoing efforts to bridge educational gaps through the LEARNOVATE-FLIP programme, said, “Education is fundamental, and as a Foundation committed to social impact, we believe it’s our responsibility to complement government efforts where it matters most.
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“Since 2023, our work has been anchored on the programme strategy, with a strong focus on improving foundational literacy and numeracy. When a child gains basic reading and mathematics skills early, it doesn’t just prepare them for the next grade; it sets them up for lifelong learning. But we also know that too many children, especially those on the margins of society, are being left behind.”
Uduimoh further explained that under the programme, the Foundation is not only supporting children already in school, but is also working to identify and reintegrate out-of-school children into the formal education system.
“What you’re seeing today in Plateau State is a direct result of that effort. Over 4,000 children have been mobilised so far and integrated into formal education across Plateau, Sokoto, and Ebonyi States. What we are doing is to provide basic resources and support, and we are committed to ensuring every child succeeds,” she said.
