KWARAETF IS TWO

Today, though in somber reflection as our dear state grapples with the pain of recent attacks and the loss of precious lives, we still mark a defining moment in our shared journey — two years of the Kwara State Education Trust Fund (KwaraETF).

What began as an ambitious mandate to build a sustainable future for education in Kwara has grown into a credible, energised institution driving real, measurable change across the state. We hold this progress with gratitude — and with the understanding that the work before us, to educate, empower and protect our people, has never been more urgent.

Over the past year, KwaraETF transitioned from planning to tangible and measurable impact, launching programmes, strengthening partnerships, expanding governance capacity, and laying the foundation for system-wide transformation.

Through expanded stakeholder engagement, private-sector involvement and strong alignment with government, the Fund successfully raised ₦235,000,000+, enabling us to finance priority programmes, support schools and advance our mission across the education value chain.

To ensure global standards and accountability, we engaged expert consultants in education planning, infrastructure development, fundraising, monitoring & evaluation and systems strengthening — ensuring that every intervention remains evidence-driven, sustainable and results-oriented.

These efforts led to major gains, beginning with our strengthened support to Kwara SUBEB, and one of the most inspiring moments of the year — celebrating Kwara’s victory at the National Presidential Schools Debate.

In recognition, KwaraETF celebrated the students as ambassadors of academic excellence; provided capacity-building support to their teachers and coaches; expanded support to their schools by strengthening leadership, improving instructional delivery and enhancing learning environments.

We also welcomed new Board Members whose expertise reflects our mission and values — Comrade Yusuf Agboola, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Dr. Amudalatu Shagaya, Professor, Faculty of Education, Al-Hikmah University. Their insight, experience and influence broadened our strategic depth and strengthened governance, marking a key milestone as we prepare for statewide expansion.

In the same spirit of institutional growth, the Board evolved as Mr. Moses Oyelere retired after decades of service; Mr. Anthony Abu transitioned following his promotion to Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works; Mr. Oluwatoyin Olawumi and Professor Deborah Adekeye also returned fully to their primary portfolios. As pioneer board members, they now serve on the sidelines on our Strategic Committee, ensuring the Fund continues to mature with wisdom and continuity.

This year also marked the official launch of the KwaraETF Scholarship Programme, inaugurating our first cohort of 12 beneficiaries in collaboration with KwaraLEARN — creating opportunity pathways for talented learners across the state.

Fundraising for this initiative was championed by Board Member Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, whose #CelebrateWithKwaraETF birthday appeal mobilised public contributions and expanded awareness of our mission.

Our School Adoption and CSR engagements continue to attract interest from private organisations, philanthropists and community partners committed to co-investing in infrastructure, school improvement and learner outcomes.

LOOKING FORWARD — The 5-Year Development Plan:

As we enter Year Three under the leadership of our chairman, RTD. Colonel Abdulwahab Ademola Lawal, Ph.D., we prepare to unveil the KwaraETF 5-Year Development Plan — a comprehensive framework to address systemic gaps and advance the vision of His Excellency Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.

This plan will deepen collaboration with key partners, notably the Office of the First Lady, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, with a shared commitment to advancing education, supporting vulnerable learners and ensuring that every Kwaran has the chance to learn, grow and thrive.

It will serve as Kwara’s blueprint for accessible, inclusive, high-quality education — nurturing innovation, creativity, dignity, security and opportunity for all.

A COLLECTIVE COMMITMENT TO KWARA’S FUTURE

The strides of the past two years reflect the dedication of countless partners, educators, donors, agencies, community leaders and students. Each milestone is a reminder of what becomes possible when vision meets collective action.

To every family grieving, to every learner who still believes in their future, and to everyone who continues to stand with us — we say thank you.

Two years of progress.

Endless possibilities ahead.

KwaraETF remains unwavering in its mission to build a resilient, peaceful and world-class education ecosystem that will serve generations to come.

‘Damilola Amolegbe,

Executive Secretary, Kwara State Education Trust Fund