A Special edition from EIDO foundation in Commemoration of the international Children’ Day
In 1981, at just 3 years old, I was supposed to begin my educational journey in Ilorin. However, fate had a different plan. My in-law, a dedicated teacher in Primary 6, became my daily companion. Instead of heading to my designated class, I followed him to his, captivated by the vibrant environment and the allure of his work, his class (primary 6) and the kind of learning that takes place there. Despite numerous attempts by family and school authority to redirect me to pre-Primary class, I stood my ground, fascinated by the world of Primary 6. My elder brother’s friends and classmates were also my friends and so it is till date – and so, I started school from primary 6A.
What an unconventional start!. Two years later, when my in-law was transferred, I had to adjust. By then, the school had become a second home, and I transitioned to Primary 2, aligning more appropriately with my age and academic level. This experience underscores a vital lesson: when education is engaging and stimulating, children are naturally drawn to it, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Research consistently highlights the significance of early childhood education. Engaging children in stimulating learning environments from a young age not only boosts academic performance but also reduces absenteeism and dropout rates. For instance, studies have shown that preschoolers who miss 10% or more of the school year arrive at kindergarten with lower levels of school readiness and are five times more likely to be chronically absent in second grade. Moreover, chronic absence in early childhood education years can predict who will miss too much school later, emphasizing the long-term impact of early attendance .
Despite the known benefits of early education, Nigeria faces significant challenges. As of late 2024, approximately 18.3 million children in Nigeria remain out of school, making the country home to the largest population of out-of-school children globally. In Kwara State, the situation is equally concerning, with about 200,000 children out of school, representing 22% of the state’s child population aged between 6 to 15 years .
However, there are glimmers of hope. In the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), students from Kwara State showcased remarkable performances. Notably, 31 students from two schools scored between 300 and 358, with a standout student achieving a score of 362. These achievements highlight the potential that exists when children are given the right educational opportunities.
As we commemorate International Children’s Day, it’s imperative to reflect on the importance of making education accessible, engaging, and inclusive for every child. My personal journey, from an unconventional start in Primary 6 to a lifelong passion for learning, serves as a testament to the transformative power of early engagement. By investing in early childhood education and creating environments where children are inspired to learn, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all.
Let us commit to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to experience the joy of learning and the promise of a better tomorrow.