The Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) has reiterated its demand for thorough reforms within Nigeria's education system, emphasizin...
The Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) has reiterated its demand for thorough reforms within Nigeria's education system, emphasizing that effective poverty alleviation cannot be achieved without targeted policy measures to enhance learning environments across the country.
At the closing ceremony of the 2025 LAPO Annual Secondary School Quiz Competition in Akure, LAPO President, Barrister Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, stated that the group's focus on scholarships, scientific resources, and academic contests aims to support but not take the place of governmental duties in providing excellent education.
Osazuwa-Ojo called on decision-makers, development allies, and private sector representatives to enhance their partnerships in order to expand STEM programs and address disparities in access to high-quality education.
As per her statement, the organization has granted over 4,000 scholarships to students attending secondary, higher education, and vocational schools since 2008.
She, however, pointed out that "sustainable impact relies on robust policies tackling infrastructure deterioration, absence of contemporary learning resources, and limited involvement in STEM, particularly in rural areas."
She called on decision-makers, development allies, and private sector representatives to establish more robust partnerships in order to expand STEM programs and decrease disparities in access to high-quality education.
Osazuwa-Ojo, represented by Mr. Obadiora Honestus, called on federal and state authorities to implement focused policies emphasizing STEM education, enhance laboratory facilities in public schools, and increase professional development for teachers in science disciplines.
"She highlighted the urgent requirement for policy structures that spark enthusiasm for scientific fields and equip students for the economy of the 21st century," she stressed.
She mentioned that the quiz, introduced in 2006 within Edo State and later extended to Delta in 2015 and Ondo in 2023, was designed to encourage academic excellence, especially in science disciplines.
"For almost twenty years, this quiz has been more than just a contest—it serves as a conscious effort to recognize hard work and encourage mental development," she said.
She mentioned that more than 100 high schools took part in the initial stages, stating that the competitors symbolize the top students who have successfully faced rigorous academic obstacles.
The contest, claimed by Seat of Wisdom Catholic College in Alagbaka with 45 points, gathered more than 100 schools from Ondo state, although it highlighted that students' performance disparities indicate larger issues in curriculum implementation and access to resources.
The head of the event, National Chairperson of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Nigeria Chapter, Prof. Folashade Olajuyigbe, also supported initiatives that encourage gender participation in STEM fields.
She urged governmental and private organizations to "establish supportive environments where girls can succeed in science and technology sectors."
She emphasized the importance of policy-focused strategies that shift education from memorization to inquiry-based, problem-solving instructional methods.
"Alongside microfinance, LAPO has continually supported emerging talent. This program demonstrates that education is essential for overcoming the cycle of poverty," she stated.
She equally motivated participants to adopt creative thinking and invention in a world that is constantly changing.
Our kids need to go past just remembering. They should pose meaningful questions, look for imaginative answers, and team up to work together.
Promoting the involvement of girls in STEM disciplines, Prof. Olajuyigbe encouraged the female participants, stating: “You belong here. You are capable. You are powerful, and the world needs your talent.”
She encouraged students to maintain the principles of fair play. "Honor your successes with dignity and face your obstacles with resilience. The true benefit lies in the understanding you've acquired and the strength you develop," she recommended.
The Ondo State Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, praised LAPO's efforts in advancing education within the state.
Ajibefun, who was represented by Mr. Adekunle Henry, admitted that the state still needs more extensive strategic funding for school facilities, online education, and science labs.
The event, organized at the Fonts Event Centre in Akure, featured Seat of Wisdom Catholic College from Alagbaka, Akure, as the top performer with 45 points, closely followed by Model Secondary School, also located in Alagbaka, Akure, with 35 points, and Greater Tomorrow International College from Ikare-Akoko taking third place.
Meanwhile, the top three institutions were provided with scientific and laboratory tools, a move LAPO highlighted as part of its efforts to improve resources for both public and private schools.
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