Children’s Day: Foundation Expands Education Outreach To Jikwoyi School

The Strom Foundation held the second edition of its 100 Bright Minds Initiative at Government Junior Secondary School, Jikwoyi, as part of Children’s Day activities aimed at improving learning and mentorship for junior secondary pupils.

The outreach focused on supporting students through the distribution of learning materials and mentorship sessions aimed at encouraging academic excellence and personal development.

According to the foundation, the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to education, mentorship, and community impact among young learners, particularly those at the secondary school level.

Representatives of the organisation said the programme was designed to support students at a formative stage where many begin to shape their ambitions, interests, and future aspirations.

During the event, students participated in interactive sessions where they engaged mentors, shared their dreams, and asked questions on education and career development.

Programme officer of the foundation, Blessing David-Offiong, said every child deserved the opportunity to succeed through proper support and guidance.
“Every child deserves more than a seat in a classroom. They deserve the tools, guidance, and confidence to believe that their future is worth preparing for,” she said.

The outreach comes amid concerns over educational challenges facing children across Nigeria.

According to figures cited by the foundation from UNICEF, about 8.1 million children of junior secondary school age are currently out of school in the country, while 74 per cent of children between the ages of seven and 14 lack basic reading and mathematics skills.

The data also indicated that about 4.2 million children fail to complete junior secondary education annually, highlighting concerns over retention and learning outcomes within the education sector.

In the Federal Capital Territory, public junior secondary schools continue to accommodate a large number of students. Statistics from the FCT Universal Basic Education Board showed that enrolment across JSS1 to JSS3 currently stands at 197,149 students.

The foundation said interventions targeted at learners in public schools remain important in addressing educational gaps and encouraging students to remain in school.

It added that the initiative also reflects its belief that Africa’s future development depends on investments in young people and the preparation of future leaders across different sectors.

Strom Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting schools and pupexpanding initiatives that promote learning, mentorship, and opportunities for children to pursue their academic and personal goals.