More than 200 students across three rural communities in Oyo-Alaafin have benefited from the 2025 edition of the EduReach for Ọ̀yọ́ Rural Learners initiative, organized by The Ayo-Sanda Ladigbolu Foundation (TASLAF).
The outreach, which took place on October 20, 2025, covered Community Basic School, Olorioso, Yaaye Community Basic School, Elegbo, and Community Secondary School, Ijawaya — all located within underserved parts of the region.
Each student received school bags filled with educational materials including textbooks, exercise books, pens, pencils, rulers, and other learning tools. For many pupils in these communities, it was their first time owning such resources.
Speaking during the event, the founder of TASLAF, Prince (Dr.) Ayo Sanda Ladigbolu, Ph.D., emphasized the Foundation’s goal to bridge the educational divide between urban and rural learners in Nigeria. Addressing over 100 students during a career guidance session, he urged them to pursue education with discipline and purpose.
“Don’t choose a career path because your friend did,” Dr. Ayo advised. “Find your passion — whether in Science, Arts, or Commerce — and stay focused. Education is not a scam; it is your greatest investment.”
He also encouraged students to resist peer pressure and to view education as the foundation of long-term success.
“Every successful person you admire started with learning. Be inspired by those who work hard, not those who have lost faith in it,” he added.
In her remarks, Mrs. Abang, Principal of Community Secondary School, Ijawaya, expressed gratitude to TASLAF for the timely intervention.
“Our students have never experienced anything like this. You could see the joy on their faces,” she said. “These supplies arrived just as we resumed a new academic term. They will surely boost student morale and learning outcomes.”
In addition to distributing materials, the EduReach program also provided mentorship and career counselling. According to Dr. Ayo, the initiative is designed not only to equip students with tools but also to inspire them to dream beyond their circumstances.
“Quality education should not be a privilege, it should be a right. Our mission is to ensure no child, regardless of location, is left behind,” he stated.
The event was coordinated by Abdgafar Uthman Opeyemi and Ayaba Adekola Oyololawa Ajoke, who both reiterated TASLAF’s commitment to extending the outreach to more rural schools across Oyo-Alaafin.
Dr. Ayo also acknowledged the contributions of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, volunteers, and donors, and called on other stakeholders and philanthropists to support the mission.
“Every act of giving, no matter how small, contributes directly to a child’s education,” he said.
As students clutched their new school bags with pride, the day ended not just with distributed materials, but with renewed optimism in communities where hope is often in short supply.
