Abuja: The Zephyrgold Aid Foundation, a non-governmental organization, has made a significant appeal to Nigerians and organizations to aid vulnerable children and families struggling to afford educational expenses. The foundation’s Managing Director, Dr. Rowland Adewumi, highlighted this call to action during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Adewumi announced that the foundation had successfully paid the school fees for 100 students from both private and public primary and secondary schools. This initiative is part of the foundation’s educational outreach, which aims to alleviate the financial burden on low-income families and ensure that children from disadvantaged backgrounds remain in school.
Dr. Adewumi emphasized the escalating cost of education, which has made it increasingly difficult for some parents to meet their children’s educational requirements. He noted that support from individuals and organizations is crucial in preventing further school dropouts. “A lot of children are seen on the street hawking, begging, or being used to carry out crime because they are not in school,” he stated.
He further explained that keeping children in school is about more than just academic development; it also protects them from negative influences and contributes to the nation’s security and development. “Education is power. Therefore, if we want our nation to move forward, we must educate the children; they are the leaders of tomorrow,” Dr. Adewumi asserted.
Dr. Adewumi added that in today’s rapidly evolving world, access to quality education is essential for children to contribute meaningfully to national development. “The world is changing fast, and it is only when the future leaders have the right education that they can bring out the change we need as a nation,” he said.
He appealed to individuals, corporate organizations, and other stakeholders to support children whose parents can no longer afford their school fees, thereby complementing governmental efforts. The foundation’s goal is to ensure that financial difficulties do not force children out of school or expose them to street hawking, begging, and other social vices.
Parents of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the foundation, acknowledging the relief it brought during a time of increasing educational costs. Mr. Matthew Ajiboye, one of the parents, described the payment as more than financial assistance, emphasizing the concern and commitment shown to the welfare of families. “This is more than just financial assistance; it is a great demonstration of concern for our welfare, understanding of the responsibilities we carry as parents, and commitment to the well-being of families,” he remarked.
Another parent, Taiye Oyelade, expressed her heartfelt thanks to the foundation for covering the school fees of her children, Bright and David. She described the gesture as an act of love and kindness and expressed her eternal gratitude, praying for continued blessings upon the foundation.