The Edo State chapter of the Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED) has lauded Governor Monday Okpebholo for his administration’s efforts in reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.

The commendation came on Friday during a press briefing held at the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Benin City.

Speaking during the visit, the State Controller of AFED, Dr. Osagie Erhunmwunse, praised the government’s proactive policies, noting that the improved ranking under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership is worthy of celebration.

Dr. Erhunmwunse also announced that the 2025 edition of the African Educational Conference will be hosted in Edo State on June 11th and 12th.

The event is designed to expose educators, school owners, and other stakeholders to global best practices while showcasing Africa’s unique contributions to education.

“The focus of this year’s training conference and world-class exhibition is to bring policymakers and influencers in the education sector together to appreciate and engage with Africa’s unique approach to learning. It’s not just about talking, but about discovering and integrating our originality into the educational narrative,” Erhunmwunse said.

He called for collaboration with the NUJ to support the conference, which is expected to attract prominent figures from Nigeria and abroad.

Confirmed attendees include Professor James Tuli, Professor Pat Utomi, former President General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), and former Oyo State Governor, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, among others.

Governor Okpebholo is scheduled to officially open the event alongside the Edo State Commissioner for Education.

Erhunmwunse further highlighted AFED’s mission to ensure access to quality, affordable education for all children, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

“Low-cost private schools are driven by the belief that private education should not be out of reach for the average Nigerian child. Many of these schools offer scholarships or charge modest fees—some as low as N10,000 to N20,000 per term,” he said.

He noted that AFED schools are actively involved in reducing the number of out-of-school children through advocacy campaigns and street pick-up programs aimed at enrolling vulnerable children in schools.

“Many of the so-called out-of-school children are actually in AFED schools. Our member schools regularly pick up children from the streets and offer them education either on scholarship or at highly subsidized rates,” he added.

In his remarks, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, Chairman of the NUJ Edo Council, commended the Edo State government for prioritizing education and reducing the out-of-school children rate, reaffirming the media’s commitment to supporting developmental initiatives in the state.