Education: Empathy To Impact

Education: Empathy To Impact

“Education is the best tool with which one can change the World for the best.” This word consistently rings in my head while striving to engage and support rural communities in Nigeria.

Having started a non profit organization in 2015, I started to conceive ideas on how best to support children’s rights and access to education. I interviewed teachers, school proprietors and other faculty members hence we had a collaboration toward this adventurous journey of changing lives in rural communities

Some parents answered most of our questions regarding community traditions since we wanted to be sensitive to rural culture and morals. While some shared with us many of their frustrations with the current educational system. Others lamented about the increasing rate of examination malpractice, lack of discipline among the student body, lack of interest in education, and the poor attitude of parents toward education. I also met and obtained the support of the Elders and Traditional rulers of the community. I interviewed them and also, all the feedbacks contributed to my decision on the next choice of action.



 



On subsequent visits to the community, myself and other team of volunteers of iRead To Live Initiative who were undergraduate law students of Osun State University, College of Law emphasized again the need to work hard and take learning seriously. Students were told they could do anything if they are resolute and diligent. Sponsorships and endowment funding have become available for support for students examination fees for the Junior Secondary School Certification Examination. Children have also been given the opportunity to join the iRead to Live Reading Club where reading habits and improved literacy are fostered.

To further encourage learning and motivation, I host Annual iRead To Live quiz, public speaking, and spelling bee, the most recent which was in honour of Simonetta Lein and funded by the WishWall Foundation.



 



Much has been accomplished since I started iRead To Live Initiative as an undergraduate student, with generous donations from family, friends and well wisher, particularly funding received from the WishWall Foundation, we have supported 100 girls with school items such as bags, sandals, sanitary towels, and exercise book. We have also empowered a local bag maker from the donation received from the WishWall foundation by contracting her to produce the bags that were donated to students.

Beyond being an undergraduate student, I am excited that I have been able to support young people to have access to quality education in rural communities in Nigeria. Dare to Dream!