As part of efforts aimed at no child is left behind in access to education, Human Development Initiatives (HDI) has provided educational and school materials to over 300 orphans, children of widows, and those with disabilities.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Executive Director of HDI, Mrs. Olufunso Owasanoye, noted that education is the foundation of every progressive society, but sadly, the harsh realities of widowhood, orphanhood, and economic hardship have made it difficult for many parents and guardians not to provide their children with basic educational materials, much less quality education.
“Today’s event is one of our ways of bridging that gap, helping to reduce the number of out-of-school children, prevent societal unrest, and offer renewed hope and inclusion to those who are vulnerable. When a child is unable to attend school and watches others go, it can deeply affect their mental and emotional well-being, impacting not only their lives but also their families and the larger society.
“Our goal is clear: no orphan, child of a widow, or child living with a disability should be left behind. The HDI Foundation, a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1997, has 28 years of dedicated service in empowering vulnerable individuals. Our vision is to create a society where everyone can thrive, free from social and economic disadvantages.”
Owasanoye said government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of educating all children, particularly the most vulnerable.
“This is why the HDI Education Trust Fund (HDI-ETF) was established to support orphans, children of widows and widowers, and children living with disabilities by providing educational materials that make learning more effective.
“Currently, the initiative supports students from nursery level to tertiary institutions across both federal and state levels. With your continued support, we are confident that we can positively transform the lives of over 1,000 vulnerable children—and many more in the years to come.”
She called for support from well meaning Nigerians to help HDI reach more vulnerable. “Our deepest appreciation goes to our loyal and generous donors. Your unwavering commitment makes all this possible.”
Each of the beneficiaries got school bag, notebooks, mathematical set, socks and scandal. Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, represented by Mr. Akinde Samuel, who was impressed with the initiative, commended HDI, saying it is a gesture that should be supported by all who have the capacity to make the project reach more children.
The parents and the pupils were full of praises for HDI and its supporters. Samson Salaudeen said getting the materials make him feel appreciated and profusely thanked HDI for supporting his education.
