First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu has commissioned an Alternative High School for Girls in Osogbo, capital of Osun State, to ensure that all woman and girls in the state have access to quality education regardless of their circumstances.
While commissioning the project, Mrs Tinubu handed the school to the Osun State Government for the management of its operations and maintenance.
She described the commissioning as the fulfilment of her commitment during the launch of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) #WeAreEqual Campaign in Nigeria on the 13th of May, 2024 where she used education as her focus using with the theme: “Education as a Powerful Tool for Change, No Girl Left Behind”.
Tinubu commended the commitment of Governor Ademola Adeleke and his wife, Titilola, for their role and efforts in approving the land upon which the school is built.
She also thanked the Universal Basic Education Commission, led by Dr. Hamid Bobboyi and his entire team for ensuring that the shool is built and completed within record time and for helping to bring its vision to bear.
“This is one of the Six (6) additional Alternative High School for girls that will be built across the country by UBEC, precisely in Imo, Kwara, Lagos, Oyo, and Rivers States. Already, we have about forty-four (44) other Alternative High Schools mainly across the Northern parts of Nigeria. The Renewed Hope Initiative will continue to champion programmes that empower girls, women and youth across the country, towards a better life for families.
“Education empowers individuals to reach their full potential. It is not merely a privilege, but a fundamental human right, regardless of gender or circumstance. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”
The Alternative High School for Girls, Osogbo has been equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including: a crèche to ensure young mothers can attend classes without worrying about their babies; a skills acquisition centre to provide vocational training and economic empowerment; and modern classrooms to create a conducive learning environment for academic excellence.
“Through these facilities, we are not only giving these girls and women, a second chance at formal education, but also equipping them with life skills to rebuild their confidence, independence, and potential to contribute meaningfully to society. I like to add that investing in women and girls’ education is investing in the future of our nation,” Mrs Tinubu said.
