As part of the ongoing efforts to alleviate the economic challenges facing students, the Ogun State Government has reported that 20,000 students in tertiary institutions nationwide have received a cash transfer of N50,000 through the Educash program. Additionally, 10,000 disadvantaged pupils in primary and secondary schools within the state have also benefited from a N10,000 cash transfer.
These announcements were made by Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, following his oversight of the cash transfer process to public primary and secondary schools in the Ogun West Senatorial District earlier this week.
Prof. Arigbabu revealed that more students are expected to benefit from the scheme in the coming week, emphasizing that all eligible students will receive their payments at both tertiary and primary/secondary levels.
The Commissioner stated, “We have already disbursed funds to 20,000 students in tertiary institutions, with a total target of nearly 50,000 beneficiaries. By next week, we anticipate reaching half of our goal, benefiting approximately 25,000 students. We have made significant progress in various institutions, such as Olabisi Onabanjo University and Tai Solarin University of Education, ensuring that 45% to 50% of eligible students have been paid.”
Regarding the disbursement process to primary and secondary school students, Prof. Arigbabu affirmed that payments would strictly be made through bank accounts to avoid cash transactions. He urged parents without bank accounts to promptly open one to facilitate the receipt of educash payments.
At various schools, parents expressed gratitude towards Governor Dapo Abiodun for the support provided through the Educash initiative. They acknowledged the impact the cash transfer would have in aiding their children’s educational pursuits.
Some of the schools visited by the team include Christ Apostolic Church School 1, Baptist High School, Nawair-ud-Deen Nursery and Primary School, Yewa Egbado College, and others in Ilaro.