Edo State Gives Out Back-to-School Packs

The Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has given out free back-to-school packs. The packs include school bags, shoes, notebooks, and pencils for pupils and students at New Benin Market in Benin City.

The board distributed these items while talking to parents, guardians, and the public. They asked everyone to prepare children for the resumption of public schools on Monday, 14 September, across Edo.

The board urged parents, guardians, and caregivers not to keep children with disabilities at home. Instead, they should allow them to learn alongside other children in schools across the state.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Ayewoh Oyakhilome, the executive chairman of SUBEB, asked parents to ensure their children return to school on Monday without delay.

Mr Oyakhilome said that education in public schools is completely free. He encouraged parents to take advantage of this chance to secure their children’s future by making sure they attend school regularly and participate actively.

He warned parents to send their children to school. He said children seen hawking or roaming the streets during school hours would be taken off the streets and brought back to school.

The SUBEB chairman also advised parents not to lock up children with disabilities at home. He mentioned that every child has the right to education and should receive the necessary support in schools throughout the state.

He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring no child is left behind under its SHINE Agenda. He highlighted the importance of inclusion, access, and quality education for all learners in the state’s communities.

Mr Oyakhilome stated, "Education is for all in Edo. There is no discrimination or tribalism. Every child matters."

He urged parents to make sure their children have access to education across Edo.

He mentioned that children with mild disabilities are included in regular public schools. Those needing more support are helped through special programs with trained teachers available when needed.

Gloria Lawani, the state coordinator for the Universal Basic Education Commission, also spoke. She said some teachers have been specially trained to understand and support children with special needs in schools across Edo.

Mrs Lawani encouraged parents to enroll their children in school and ensure they attend regularly. She stressed that consistent participation helps with learning, development, and long-term success for every child in Edo’s schools and communities.

One beneficiary, Vivian Ekiomado, expressed gratitude to the state government for the school materials. She said these items will ease the burden on families getting children ready for school.

She stated that all her children will return to school on Monday because they now have the needed materials. She added that this support will help them start classes confidently and learn well.

Mrs Ekiomado thanked the government for its help, calling the provision of school materials timely support for families. She said it encourages parents to keep their children in school throughout the academic year.