In a move aimed at supporting grassroots education and easing the burden on parents, Hon. Popoola Olawale James, a two-term Councillor representing Ward 2 in Ibadan NorthWest Local Government, has launched an educational palliative initiative targeted at primary school pupils and prospective tertiary institution candidates.
The initiative, which focuses on direct financial support to schools on behalf of beneficiaries, recently catered to Basic Six pupils preparing for the 2026 Common Entrance Examination into JSS1. According to the councillor, the programme is designed to complement the free education policy of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, while also cushioning the economic strain on parents and guardians within Ward 2.
Hon. James flagged off the exercise at his alma mater, St. Peter’s Primary School, Oke-Are, where six pupils benefited from the scheme. The beneficiaries were selected across three school units within the institution’s structure. The Headmistress, Mrs. Ogunjimi J.A., alongside Assistant Headmistress of St Peter’s Catholic School II, Mrs. Olatunbosun I.O., received the councillor and commended the initiative.
“We thank our Governor for the free education in Oyo State but the situation of the country has not enabled many parents to fully cater for their children at this critical stage, and this can create a sense of inferiority among pupils, which may impact their performance. We appreciate your gesture and we want more of this to encourage our pupils and prepare them well for the future,” the school management said.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. James noted that prevailing economic challenges have made it increasingly difficult for many parents to adequately support their children’s transition from primary to secondary school. He emphasized that such gaps can negatively affect pupils’ confidence and academic performance.
The councillor described the gesture as a way of giving back to his alma mater and reflecting on his humble beginnings. He encouraged pupils to remain focused, stressing that education remains a vital tool for a brighter future. “No child should be left behind. Tomorrow holds great promise, and every child deserves a chance to succeed,” he added.
Other beneficiary schools include I.M.G Primary School, Oniyarin, where three pupils received support under the supervision of Assistant Headmaster, Mr. Adetulese, Assistant Headmistress, Mrs. Ayanbisi, and Class Teacher, Mr. Nwokorie Paul.
At Chief Agbaje Memorial School, Ayeye, three pupils also benefited; one from each of the school’s units. Notably, one of the beneficiaries was described as a pupil facing significant personal hardship following the recent loss of his father, yet remains committed to his education. The school’s leadership, including Dr. Mrs. Oladeji, Mrs. Oladapo E.B., and Mrs. Adelakun, expressed appreciation for the timely intervention.
Similarly, one pupil from Baptist Primary School, Idikan, benefited from the initiative, with school officials including Vice Headmaster Mr. Jimoh and Class Teacher Mr. Olanrewaju Oluwaseyi T. commending the councillor’s efforts.
Across all the schools visited, management, parents, and pupils lauded the initiative, describing it as impactful and timely.
In an expanded dimension of the programme, Hon. James also sponsored over 10 students from Ward 2 for the 2026 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, further extending support to candidates seeking admission into higher institutions. Beneficiaries and their families expressed gratitude, noting that the sponsorship would significantly enhance their academic pursuits.
Hon. James concluded by appreciating Governor Seyi Makinde and the Executive Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government, Hon. Rahman Adepoju, for creating an enabling environment for such initiatives. He also acknowledged community leaders and residents of Ward 2 for their continued support, which he said has made his service as councillor impactful.
The educational palliative programme is expected to continue in phases, reaching more beneficiaries across the ward as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen access to quality education at the grassroots.
