FROM SAMSON ALFA, MINNA
Niger State Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education has flagged off a scholarship scheme and distributed learning items to special needs students.
The programme, which took place in Minna on Monday, was sponsored by the wife of the governor, Hajiya Fatima Bago, in collaboration with Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, AGILE, Ilimi Children’s Fund, and the Farid Centre.
Speaking at the flag-off, the governor’s wife noted that the scholarship goes beyond providing financial support, but symbolises hope of better opportunities for every girl-child in the state.
Mrs Bago also stated that every scholarship given was in recognition of the dream for every girl to fulfil her ambitions and future, which is worthy to be invested into.
She added that every girl-child, regardless of physical ability, could access quality education.
The governor’s wife, who is also the Girl Child Ambassador for AGILE in the North Central, promised to continue to give support to the girls and advocated a society where girls potentials are recognised and nurtured.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Hadiza Mohammed said government recognises the power of education as a transformative tool that can uplift the entire community.
In her address, AGILE’s Project Coordinator for Niger State, Hajiya Maimuna Tahir said the scholarship reflects the state’s alignment to Sustainable Development Goals, SDG’s, prioritising gender equality.
She praised the governor’s wife for her dedication and commitment to the course of the girl-child.
About 8,722 special needs students benefited from the scholarship.
