Ogun Govt intensifies campaign to tackle illiteracy, out-of-school menace

The Ogun State government is ramping up its efforts to combat illiteracy and the issue of out-of-school children, with a campaign taking its message directly to markets and motor parks across the state. The Agency for Mass and Lifelong Education, under the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun, has been conducting sensitisation drives in Remo North, Yewa North, and Ijebu-East Local Government Areas.

Speaking at the campaign, Abosede Odulesi, a director at the agency, urged those who missed out on formal education to take advantage of the government's free adult literacy and skills acquisition program. She emphasized that anyone can benefit from the initiative, as textbooks and writing materials would be provided at no cost.

Odulesi highlighted the transformative power of education in personal and socio-economic growth, stating that those with literacy skills would experience a marked improvement in their lives. In addition to literacy classes, the government has also launched vocational training in various trades, including garment making, hairdressing, catering, hospitality, shoe making, cosmetology, and barbing, aiming to provide opportunities for those who might otherwise struggle to afford such education.

The message of transformation was echoed by several beneficiaries of the program. Christianah Ogunleye and Olatunde Ajoke of the Ayetoro centre, as well as Jimoh Quadri from the Itele centre, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn, stating that they had previously been unable to read or write but could now communicate effectively. Juliet Akinleye, another beneficiary, confirmed that the training was entirely free and included all necessary equipment.