Abeokuta, Ogun State — A personal birthday vow made in September 2023 has blossomed into a life-changing educational initiative, as a philanthropist from Imeko-Afon Local Government Area begins the sponsorship of 100 students for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.
The initiative, spearheaded by SF Ojo Emmanuel Adediran, aims to support students drawn from all 10 wards in , providing them with free JAMB registration and structured academic tutorials designed to boost their chances of success in the highly competitive examination.
The first batch of selected students arrived in this week, marking the official commencement of the programme. Organisers describe the move as a milestone in transforming a promise into tangible action and expanding educational access for young people in the community.
Speaking on the motivation behind the initiative, Emmanuel emphasised that the gesture was rooted in a deep sense of responsibility toward youth development and equal opportunity. He noted that education remains one of the most effective tools for empowerment and social mobility, particularly in underserved communities.
“This is about more than paying for an examination,” he said. “It is about giving our students hope, confidence and the opportunity to compete fairly. When we invest in education, we invest in the future of our people and our nation.”
The programme is structured in two phases. The first phase covers free registration for the examination, removing the financial barrier that often prevents capable students from pursuing tertiary education. The second phase provides intensive tutorials and academic support aimed at preparing participants for optimal performance.
Organisers explained that the initiative is aligned with ongoing educational and human-capital development efforts at both federal and state levels. They noted that the programme complements the broader educational agenda championed by , and , whose policies continue to prioritise access to quality education and youth empowerment.
Community leaders and parents have welcomed the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful. Many noted that the rising cost of examination registration and tutorial support has made it increasingly difficult for families to support their children’s academic aspirations.
Beneficiary students, some of whom are the first in their families to pursue higher education, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Several said the programme has not only eased financial pressure but also strengthened their determination to excel academically.
Education advocates say initiatives like this demonstrate the role individuals and community-based programmes can play in complementing government efforts to improve access to education, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
As the tutorial sessions get underway and more batches of students are expected to arrive in Abeokuta, Emmanuel reaffirmed his commitment to seeing the initiative through. He stressed that the goal is not merely to sponsor exams but to nurture ambition, confidence and long-term educational success.
“With the right support, our young people can achieve anything,” he said. “No willing and capable child should be left behind.”
The programme continues in the coming weeks, with organisers promising updates as students progress through the registration and tutorial phases. Community stakeholders say the initiative stands as a powerful example of grassroots investment in education and a model that could be replicated across other local government areas.
