Ekiti State Government has taken a bold step forward in education by releasing N3.55 billion as counterpart funding for 2024 UBEC/SUBEB projects.
This substantial investment will transform primary schools across the state through infrastructure upgrades and learning improvements.
Following UBEC’s increased intervention fund from N3.5 billion to N7 billion, Ekiti fulfilled its obligation by providing the required 50% matching funds. SUBEB Chairman Prof. Femi Akinwumi confirmed the payment during an MoU signing ceremony in Abuja with UBEC and WEMA Bank representatives.
Professor Akinwumi expressed gratitude for UBEC’s continued partnership in strengthening basic education. He particularly praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment to educational development, which has yielded measurable results. Under the governor’s leadership, Ekiti has reduced out-of-school children while improving facilities, teacher welfare and training programs.
“The governor’s passion for education has driven remarkable progress in our schools,“ Akinwumi noted during the event. He highlighted Oyebanji’s responsive leadership style that prioritizes education as fundamental to the state’s development.
With the funds now secured, officials will finalize project plans and begin contractor selection processes. The 2024 interventions will include building new classrooms, renovating existing structures, providing furniture, and improving water and sanitation facilities. Perimeter fencing will also enhance school security.
WEMA Bank’s Abuja Regional Manager Rotimi Famuagun participated in the MoU signing, representing the financial institution’s role in facilitating the education projects. The bank’s involvement ensures proper fund management for maximum impact.
This financial commitment demonstrates Ekiti’s determination to create better learning environments. Students will benefit from upgraded facilities while teachers gain improved working conditions. The projects align with the state’s broader education reform agenda.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the development as timely and transformative. Parents anticipate better schools for their children, while teachers look forward to enhanced teaching environments. The projects will particularly help rural communities with limited educational infrastructure.
As implementation begins, SUBEB will monitor progress to ensure funds achieve intended results. Transparent processes will guide contractor selection and project execution. Community members will participate in oversight to maintain accountability.
The governor’s office reaffirmed its dedication to education as a cornerstone of development. Officials noted this investment follows previous successful interventions that improved school enrollment and performance. More initiatives are planned to sustain the progress.
Ekiti’s bold move sets an example for other states prioritizing education. The comprehensive approach addresses infrastructure gaps while supporting teachers and learners. When completed, the projects will significantly raise education standards across communities.
Education experts commend the state’s foresight in meeting the UBEC funding requirements promptly. This proactive approach ensures Ekiti can access federal matching funds without delay. The timely payment reflects strong fiscal responsibility.
Teachers across the state have expressed optimism about the coming improvements. Many schools currently operate in dilapidated buildings with inadequate facilities. The intervention promises to change this reality for thousands of students.
Parents’ associations have pledged to support the projects through community participation. Local volunteers will help monitor construction quality and timelines. This collaborative approach strengthens ownership of school improvements.
The projects will prioritize schools in most urgent need of intervention. SUBEB has conducted needs assessments to guide equitable resource allocation. Remote rural schools will receive special attention to bridge geographical disparities.
As Ekiti prepares to transform its basic education landscape, all eyes remain on the implementation phase. Successful execution will require sustained commitment from government, communities and contractors alike. The state’s children deserve nothing less.