Determined to address the growing challenge of out- of- school children in Nigeria, Slum2School Africa has partnered with Anthony Joshua, former World heavyweight boxer to visit Adekunle Primary school, Makoko, Lagos.
The visit by Anthony Joshua was part of activities put together by Slum2School Africa aimed at seeking out ways to contribute to the reduction of out of school children in the country as well as improve the country’s educational sector.
Currently, Nigeria has an estimated 10.5 million of the country’s children aged 5-14 years, not in school; an issue this widespread is one that deserves all the attention needed.
Ruth Diyan Ebe, Head of Operations Slum2school Africa, while speaking at the event said the need to empower underprivileged children could not be overemphasised as they later become part of the larger society.
According to her, “We recognise that there are severe shortcomings in the educational sector in Africa and in this area, we seek to improve the lives of Africa’s most precious resource – her children”.
Ebe opines that Slum2School’s successes could be attributed to a number of collaborations which include the government, private sector, individuals and other developmental agencies adding that the British government also partners with them.
“We are having delegates from the British High Commission, British Council and Anthony Joshua to see what Slum2School does, what Makoko community is all about and how we can work together to help the children have access to quality education,” She said.
Slum2School Africa is a volunteer-driven organisation whose mission is to transform the society by empowering disadvantaged children to realise their full potential.
Founded in 2012, Slum2School Africa provides educational scholarships, create learning spaces and provide other psychosocial support for disadvantaged and vulnerable children in slums and indigent communities.
Also present at the event was Tonye Cole, former Group Executive Director of Sahara Group and energy, ace comedian Ali Baba, Timi Dakolo amongst others.
KELECHI EWUZIE
