The Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Temitope Adewale, on Wednesday, distributed free Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms to 1,750 indigent students in Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 1.
During the presentation, Adewale reaffirmed his commitment to the development of education in his constituency, highlighting the initiative as part of his broader efforts to empower youth. He noted that the distribution of the forms aligned with the THEMES PLUS agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s education-focused initiatives aimed at fostering academic excellence and creating opportunities for young people.
Adewale revealed that his Adewale Temitope Adedeji Education Initiative (ATA-EI), launched in 2020, began with 350 free JAMB forms. He emphasized the initiative’s growth, noting that the number of forms distributed had increased to 1,750 this year, reflecting his ongoing support for educational development.
“This initiative is part of my vision to make Ifako-Ijaiye one of Nigeria’s most educated local government areas,” Adewale said. “We have increased the number of free JAMB forms from 350 to 1,750, demonstrating our growing commitment to education.”
As part of the initiative, Adewale announced that the first 50 students who gained admission through the UTME would receive scholarships covering first-year tuition and potentially full coverage of expenses for maintaining a first-class GPA.
The lawmaker encouraged students to take their education seriously, warning them against distractions like cultism, drug abuse, and alcohol, while urging them to stay focused on their goals.
In addition, Adewale shared plans to launch an Adult Education Programme aimed at teaching adults how to read and write, further contributing to the educational development of the community.
Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic Education, also addressed the students, urging them to value education and uphold the right values. He emphasized that a strong education foundation would prepare them for a successful future.
Mr. Victor Onifade, a legislative leader, expressed gratitude to Adewale for his consistent support in providing free JAMB and GCE forms, praising his commitment to making Ifako-Ijaiye a more educationally-focused community.
Miss Aishat Abdulsalam, a beneficiary, spoke on behalf of the students, assuring the lawmaker that they would make their parents and constituency proud in the upcoming UTME.
The event concluded with the presentation of recognition awards and N200,000 in cash to some principals and teachers for their dedication to the educational development of Ifako-Ijaiye.
The 2025 UTME is scheduled to take place from April 25 to May 5.
(NAN)