The Kwara Tabloid Academic Lifeline Initiative has successfully sponsored the registration of 32 indigent secondary school students for the 2025 WAEC/NECO examinations in Kwara State.
Speaking during the presentation, the Coordinator of the initiative, Musa Aliyu, explained that the beneficiaries were carefully screened before selection.
According to him, a total of 65 students applied and were screened, but only 32 were selected after the exercise.
“We screened all applicants thoroughly before selecting the final beneficiaries. We intend to sustain this initiative and continue supporting vulnerable students,” Aliyu said.
The Convener of Kwara Tabloid, Tunde Bakare, noted that the initiative was established to assist students from low-income families who may struggle to pay examination fees.
“This support is part of our effort to give back to society. We are currently crowdfunding from members of our platform to help indigent students register for WAEC and NECO,” Bakare explained.
He added that the funds were sourced from private individuals, many of whom are not even indigenes of Kwara State, stressing the broad support the initiative has attracted.
Bakare expressed satisfaction that the beneficiaries were genuinely from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Also speaking at the event, Barrister Jumoke Olaoye, the Kwara State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), commended the organisers for prioritising education.
She noted that lack of access to education often contributes to social challenges such as early and forced marriages.
“Education is very important. Many parents cannot afford school and examination fees, and this often leads to serious societal issues. I pray for the students and urge them to maintain good behaviour,” she said.
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The President of the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Kwara State Chapter, Mallam Salihu, disclosed that the initial plan was to sponsor five students from each local government area, but financial constraints reduced the number.
He advised the beneficiaries to remain focused and committed to their studies.
“You were selected on merit. Continue reading so you can excel and make your families, teachers, the organisation, and society proud,” he said.
Parents of the beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for the gesture. One of them, Mallam Abdulrasheed, described the initiative as a major relief, noting that some parents are often forced to pay examination fees in instalments.
Another parent, Mallam Jubril, offered prayers, saying, “Jazakumullahu Khairan,” while Hajia Nike Tajudeen shared her struggles as a cleaner working hard to support her children through school.
The Secretary of ANCOPSS also appreciated the convener and urged the students to serve as good ambassadors of their families and communities.
The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the initiative through continued donations and public support.
