In a significant stride towards enhancing educational infrastructure and tackling the out-of-school children issue, Oyo State has embarked on a comprehensive renovation initiative under the Better Education Service Delivery for All Additional Finance; Transforming Education Systems at States Level (BESDA AF-TESS) Programme. This ambitious project aims to improve learning conditions across 105 primary schools throughout the state.
Funding for these critical renovations, totaling N3.5 billion, has been secured through a generous grant from the World Bank. The program underscores the state government’s commitment to providing conducive learning environments that will benefit both current and future students.
According to state officials, the primary objective of the BESDA AF-TESS Programme in Oyo State is to significantly reduce the number of out-of-school children by enhancing access to quality education. By renovating these schools, which were selected based on strategic criteria such as infrastructure deficits and population density, authorities believe they can create a more welcoming and productive educational experience.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Governor Seyi Makinde emphasized that education remains a top priority for the administration, noting that improved school infrastructure directly correlates with better learning outcomes. He highlighted the comprehensive nature of the renovations, which will encompass repairs to classrooms, toilets, roofs, and the provision of essential learning materials.
The BESDA AF-TESS Programme is part of a broader national effort to revitalize education across Nigeria, focusing particularly on states grappling with high numbers of out-of-school children. By targeting infrastructure deficiencies, the program seeks to create an environment where children are encouraged to attend and remain in school, thereby fostering a brighter future for the state and the nation as a whole.
Local stakeholders, including educators and parents, have expressed optimism about the potential impact of the renovations. They anticipate that improved facilities will not only attract more children to enroll but also improve the overall quality of education delivered in Oyo State.
As the renovations get underway, the state government has assured residents that transparency and accountability will be upheld throughout the process. Regular updates on the progress of the renovations and the utilization of funds will be provided to ensure that the objectives of the BESDA AF-TESS Programme are met effectively.
Upon completion, the refurbished schools are anticipated to serve as beacons of educational excellence, reflecting Oyo State’s unwavering commitment to securing a brighter future through improved access to quality education.
