In a compelling move to address the declining state of education and rekindle hope for Nigeria’s younger generation, the AlmondCare Educational Empowerment Foundation (ACEEF) held its official launch and inaugural event at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Ogba, Lagos, on Wednesday, May 22, 2025.
With the theme, “The Role of Education in Positively Shaping the Life of a Child,” the event brought together students, educators, child rights advocates, and stakeholders in the education sector to highlight the pivotal role of education in national development and child empowerment.
Delivering the welcome address, Funke Olawolé, Convener of ACEEF, emphasized the urgent need to confront the declining quality of education in Nigeria. “Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed a disturbing decline in the quality of education. It is essential that we identify the root causes and work together to address them,” she stated.
Olawolé outlined ACEEF’s mission, which includes promoting educational values, advocating for children’s rights, supporting the less privileged, and encouraging gender equality. “This foundation is our commitment to nurturing future champions, young minds who will not only succeed personally but also contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation at large,” she added.
Representatives from several schools graced the event, including Franklin Comprehensive School, 1st Learning Hall, Bethel Gemini School, High Scope School, St. Collins Group of Schools, and postgraduate diploma students and lecturers from NIJ.
The keynote address, titled “Education: The Catalyst for Transforming Lives”, was delivered by Professor Folake Olowokudejo of the University of Lagos, who served as the Special Guest of Honour.
“Education is more than the acquisition of knowledge; it is the catalyst for empowerment, the bedrock of equality, and the cornerstone of societal advancement,” Prof. Olowokudejo declared.
Highlighting sobering statistics, she noted that about 14 million children in Nigeria are out of school, with girls accounting for nearly 60% of that figure. She called attention to systemic issues such as child marriage and low female literacy rates, while also highlighting the far-reaching benefits of educating the girl child; from improved health outcomes and economic empowerment to stronger civic participation.
Prof. Olowokudejo also addressed the rising sentiment among some Nigerian youths that “education is a scam.” “This mindset is a reflection of disillusionment, not a truth. Education remains the most powerful tool for transformation. It cultivates critical thinking, fosters innovation, and empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
She called on stakeholders to adapt Nigeria’s education system to modern realities by integrating entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and practical skills into the curriculum. “To our students, I urge you to embrace education as a tool to unlock your potential. To our educators, make learning relevant and engaging. And to our policymakers, invest in inclusive and adaptive education systems,” she urged.
The event featured interactive sessions, motivational talks, and an atmosphere charged with renewed hope. Students expressed excitement and inspiration, while teachers and guests commended the initiative’s clear vision and impactful message.
As Malcolm X once said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” That spirit was alive at ACEEF’s inaugural event, a bold step in reaffirming education as a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s evolving landscape.
AlmondCare Educational Empowerment Foundation (ACEEF) Event Photo Gallery:
