Enoch Oyedibu
An Ogun State-born Professor of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Beatrice Opeolu, who is also the Director of Bee Solutions and Consultant Services, on Thursday, distributed educational materials to 781 public primary school students in Imasayi, Yewa North Local Government Area of the State.
The materials included a dedicated school bag, six exercise books, and a water bottle for each student at Ansarudeen Primary School and Christ Church Primary School.
The professor, who is based in South Africa, said the philanthropic exercise was her way of fulfilling her pledge to God and herself, as well as giving back to the community and the school where she began her educational journey.
She cited Imasayi as her birthplace and Ansarudeen Primary School as the starting point of her education, where she graduated in 1977.
Professor Opeolu distributed the materials as a gesture of affection and compassion for the students, stating that the distribution also marked the one-year anniversary of Bee Solutions and Consultant Services, a philanthropic organization based in South Africa and Nigeria.
“Ansarudeen Primary School happens to be where my academic journey started. I made a pledge to myself and God that when I started this business, a portion of its earnings would go to people in vulnerable communities—communities where I stand to gain nothing from the beneficiaries.
The business turned one year old in July this year, so we started planning. I thought, ‘Where better to start than where my life’s journey began?’ That is Ansarudeen Primary School in Imasayi, where I was born and started my primary school education.
“That’s why we are here. The idea is to come to my community and inspire the children to believe that education is not a scam, as many are led to think today.
Education is still profitable. Education is still the shortest path for those not born into wealthy families.”
“We are here to motivate a child, inspire their parents, and help raise the next generation of people who will drive global sustainability in the world community.”
Speaking on the alarming rate of out-of-school children, the professor lamented that the figure has risen to almost 40% in Ogun State. She urged parents and the government to look inward and invest in indigent students, whom she believes have the potential to drive change globally.
“It’s sad, and I guess there’s nothing new under the sun. I remember when I finished my primary school education in 1977. I recall cousins who couldn’t attend school because their parents couldn’t afford it.
“Though they were older than me, I completed my higher education before them because my parents were committed to paying for my education.
“These cousins eventually started their education when the UPN came to power and introduced free education in Ogun State. I believe it’s something we can still revisit. The bottom line is that not every parent can afford education for their children from primary school through high school.
“Some of us assume that since we can afford to pay for our children’s education, everyone else should be able to do the same.
“But in our communities, if you give some parents ₦50,000, it would dramatically change their children’s lifestyle, yet they can’t even afford that ₦50,000 for school fees. If we want to reduce the dropout rate, the government should look inward and provide support for indigent students—those who have the potential to succeed but whose parents cannot afford education, or those without anyone willing to support them. I know many people who couldn’t become professors simply because they lacked the funding and support.
“I advise parents never to give up on their children. Sometimes the most troublesome child may end up achieving greatness. Don’t give up on any child.
“We were all troublesome once; I know I was, but today, thanks to the support of my family and the grace of God, that has changed. So, parents, I encourage you to give your children your best effort. That way, when you are old and nearing the end of your life, you can confidently say, ‘I gave my children my best.'”
Both Akeeb Hawal and Bashiru Lateef, who are primary 6 students of Ansarudeen Primary School, expressed their gratitude on behalf of the other students to Professor Opeolu.
Notably, Ansarudeen Primary School was founded in 1958, while Christ Church Primary School, founded nearly 100 years ago, will be celebrating its centenary in January 2025.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Royal Institute of Health Technology
