The Lagos State government has officially launched a Special Scholarship for Inclusion Awards in tertiary institutions, marking another significant milestone in its THEMES Plus initiative and underscoring the state’s dedication to inclusive governance and urban development.
The ceremonial launch and flag-off event took place at the Eko FM Multi-Purpose Hall of Lagos State Television in Ikeja, where Hon. Tolani Sule, Commissioner for Higher Education, commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s policies promoting inclusiveness in education.
Highlighting the core objective of the initiative, Sule said, “Today, Lagos State has affirmed its commitment, and we are implementing these interventions to make learning comfortable and attractive for the citizens of Lagos. We have also received positive feedback from the federal government.”
He emphasized that the state’s policy ensures no one is left behind, regardless of indigene status, background, or gender, in accessing quality education. Sule also lauded Mr. Mosopefolu “Ope” George, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, for securing funding and fostering collaboration with partner agencies.
The Commissioner further acknowledged the dedication of Mrs. Rasheedat Daranijo, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Scholarship Board (LSSB), as well as the Lagos State Examinations Board, the Lagos State Library Board, and the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), for their crucial roles in advancing inclusive education.
He confirmed that bursary payments for beneficiaries have already commenced following Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approval for immediate disbursement, aimed at easing the financial burden on parents and students.
Earlier, Mrs. Daranijo praised the launch of the scholarship awards, describing it as part of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus agenda and reflecting his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance.
“Today marks the beginning of a new phase in our scholarship administration,” she said. “This aligns with the second administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which emphasises that no one should be left behind in our commitment to the importance of education.”
Since its inception, the Lagos State Scholarship Board has supported indigent students through bursaries and scholarships, with many beneficiaries sharing their personal experiences of the application process.
Mrs. Daranijo noted that the current scholarship scheme includes two categories of beneficiaries: individuals living with disabilities and those identified as multi-dimensionally poor and vulnerable. She also commended the collaborative efforts of various government agencies involved in the initiative.
A highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of dummy cheques worth N225,000 each to several beneficiaries. Awardees, including Ogunbona Mary Oladele, Yekini Amirah Bukola, Ismail Ibrahim Omoniyi, and Oshodi Oriyomi Sampson, expressed gratitude to the state government for its support.
However, one awardee, Ojo Aanuoluwapo Abayomi, who is nearing the completion of his studies, appealed to Governor Sanwo-Olu to extend assistance beyond scholarships by helping graduates secure employment opportunities.
