Supporting Education: Why Foundations Should Invest in Students’ Future
Access to quality education remains a challenge for many Nigerian students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Recognizing this, the Chief Executive Officer of Lok Foundation, Mr. Lukman Akerele, has distributed over 100 free Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms to students aspiring to gain admission into higher institutions.
At the distribution event held at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board premises, Akerele emphasized that the initiative was aimed at easing the financial burden on students and their parents while encouraging academic excellence.
“The forms which we are giving out at no cost will afford them the opportunity to sit for the examination organized by JAMB,” Akerele stated. “The foundation is also taking a step further by sponsoring successful candidates to higher institutions as part of efforts to reduce the financial strain on their families.”
The significance of this initiative extends beyond just distributing examination forms; it serves as a lifeline for students whose dreams of tertiary education could be hindered by financial constraints. This underscores the need for more foundations and corporate organizations to support educational programs that empower the next generation.
By investing in scholarships, mentorship programs, and academic support services, non-governmental organizations and private foundations can bridge the gap for students who might otherwise struggle to further their education. Akerele noted that Lok Foundation has consistently run this initiative for six years, positively impacting numerous young people by providing them with the opportunity to access higher education.
He urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity, emphasizing that education remains a powerful tool for personal and societal development.
With the 2025 UTME scheduled to take place from April 25 to May 5 and registration ongoing until March 8, initiatives like this reinforce the importance of inclusive education and highlight why more organizations should step in to support students in need.
