The Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, has charged students in the state to embrace education and courage, describing education as a major pathway to development and meaningful participation in society.
Senator Salisu frowned at the growing notion among some youths that education is a scam, noting that education has produced several great men and women in society, particularly in Ogun State.
The lawmaker said his passion for education was shaped by the counsel of his parents 46 years ago, adding that following the death of his mother, he came to realise the importance of education in enabling individuals to become meaningful members of society.
Salisu spoke on Wednesday at the annual SAS Omoyayi Educational Support Programme, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
The programme had the theme: “Investing in Education, Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders.”
Reaffirming his commitment to promoting education, digital literacy and ICT skills, Salisu urged the students to see themselves as future senators and leaders, noting that they now have access to better schools and numerous examples to inspire them.
“You must focus on your education. Whenever you’re convinced that you’re doing the right thing, don’t be afraid to be different. Keep on doing it. The only passport to development, to be part of society, is education,” he said.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, reaffirmed the commitment of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration to improving the quality of education in Ogun State.
Arigbabu urged the senator to sustain his support for learners, stressing that education remains one of the most valuable forms of empowerment.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, likened the educational support initiative to planting a seed, saying its value would become evident when the beneficiaries grow into successful adults.
Elemide noted that empowering people through education gives them a significant foundation for success in life, urging the students to make good use of the opportunity and reciprocate the gesture when they become successful.
Meanwhile, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Comrade Noah Sewakanu, urged the students to make judicious use of the educational materials distributed to them.
Sewakanu also encouraged the beneficiaries to study hard, remain disciplined and become good ambassadors of Ogun State as they pursue their future aspirations.
