The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every school-age child has access to basic education, describing it as a fundamental right guaranteed by law.
The Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known on Thursday while briefing the media in his office, Ibadan, urging the parents, guardians, community leaders, and market stakeholders to collaborate with the government.
Hon. Olayiwola explained that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has adopted an alternative approach to enforcing compliance with compulsory basic education.
He noted that instead of focusing solely on penalties for parents, the government is introducing flexible learning opportunities for children who are currently out of school.
The commissioner maintained that the state government will organize free evening classes for children engaged in menial jobs within major markets.
He said that the pilot phase of the program will take place in Mokola/Sabo, Bodija, and Agbeni/Idi-kan markets.
According to him, the program is scheduled to commence on Monday, April 27, 2026, while the classes will start at 4pm and close at 6pm daily.
The designated centers include St. Brigid’s Primary School, Mokola (for children in the Sabo/Mokola axis).
St. Patrick’s Basic School, Idi-kan, Agbeni (for children in Idi-kan, Agbeni, and surrounding areas)
Methodist Primary School, Bodija (for children in Bodija and environs)
He called on parents, guardians, and traders in these markets to support the initiative by allowing and encouraging affected children to attend the two-hour evening classes.
In her remarks, the director of basic education, Mrs. Susan Oladipo, revealed that members of the State Steering Committee on Almajiri and Out of School had conducted awareness and sensitization visits to the three markets.
She noted that market leaders pledged their full support by helping to identify vulnerable children and encouraging their participation in the program.
Packaged by Adekunle Adegboyega
