The Olarinde Steve Falekulo Initiative has distributed over 2,000 writing materials to children in Ondo East Local Government Area, Ondo State. According to Falekulo, the leader of the initiative, this gesture aims to address educational challenges in underserved communities, especially during difficult economic times.
The donated items, which include notebooks, calculators, and mathematical sets, are intended to ensure that children have the essential tools to resume school. Falekulo also shared plans to extend the program to other local government areas, with the goal of uplifting more children and families. In addition, the initiative provided cash grants to local youths to promote entrepreneurship and support their economic sustainability.
Speaking on behalf of the community’s traditional ruler, Mr. Abraham Oke expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that it would help children concentrate on their studies. He added that the donation has relieved many parents struggling to provide basic learning materials for their children.
In a related development, the JRO Foundation, led by Emeritus Prof. Jacob Oluwoye and Dr. Ronke Oluwoye, distributed gift items to children, along with textiles and food supplies to widows in Ilawo. Earlier this year, the foundation awarded scholarships to Ilawo indigenes pursuing higher education in various Nigerian institutions.
Some beneficiaries of the JRO Foundation’s scholarship program attended the event and expressed their heartfelt thanks to Prof. and Dr. Oluwoye for their transformative impact on their lives.
What This Donation Means to the Society
Mr. Falekulo, the leader of the initiative, emphasised that education is a vital tool for unlocking the potential of individuals and communities. Reflecting on his experiences abroad, he noted that witnessing how developed nations prioritise investments in their youth inspired him to contribute to the future of his people in Ondo.
He described the donation as a starting point, a small seed that the initiative aims to nurture into a larger effort reaching every part of Ondo State. He noted that many families have been burdened by the rising cost of living, and this donation has provided much-needed relief and renewed hope for their children.
Chief Oluwasiji Akinola, the Oloja of Fagbo Paadi, commended the OSF Initiative for its remarkable generosity, highlighting its significant impact on the community. He emphasised that the donation would enhance the lives of children and contribute to broader community development.
Akinola also acknowledged the cash empowerment for youths, stating that it would encourage entrepreneurship and innovation. He expressed gratitude for Falekulo’s dedication to the community, noting that his continued commitment despite years spent abroad is deeply valued by everyone.
