In a move aimed at promoting academic excellence and encouraging school retention among children, PalmPay has partnered with Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) to reward high-performing pupils in selected public schools across Lagos State.

The initiative, according to both organisations, is part of broader efforts to support ambition among young Nigerians and address barriers limiting access to quality education.
Under the partnership, outstanding pupils identified across selected public schools will receive scholarships, shopping vouchers and branded school kits to support their educational needs and ease financial pressure on their families.

The collaboration comes amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis. According to UNICEF, about 18.3 million school-age children remain out of the classroom, despite gradual improvements in school enrollment nationwide.

Speaking on the partnership, Managing Director of PalmPay, Chika Nwosu, said recognising and rewarding exceptional students would help reinforce the value of education and motivate children to remain committed to learning.

He noted that the initiative goes beyond celebrating academic performance, stressing that it also serves as a support system for families struggling with the cost of education.
“Recognizing and rewarding high-performing students goes beyond celebrating excellence. It reinforces the value of education, strengthens motivation, and supports families in keeping their children in school. Through our partnership with LASUBEB, we are contributing to an ecosystem where young people are encouraged to stay engaged and pursue their ambitions,” he said.

The company explained that by working directly with the public education system, the programme is designed to ensure support reaches students where it is most impactful.
According to PalmPay, rewarding academic discipline and consistency can help students see education as a pathway to greater opportunities while also encouraging parents to prioritise continuous learning for their children.

Industry observers say private sector participation in basic education support has become increasingly important as government and development agencies seek sustainable solutions to improve school retention and learning outcomes across the country.

The partnership also aligns with PalmPay’s broader corporate social responsibility agenda focused on economic and social inclusion. The fintech firm said it remains committed to initiatives that reduce barriers for underserved families while creating opportunities for young Nigerians to thrive.

Analysts note that increased collaboration between the private sector and public education institutions could play a significant role in improving educational outcomes, strengthening human capital development and preparing a future workforce capable of driving Nigeria’s economic growth