Arisekola Takes Back-to-School Initiative to Alma Mater, Decries Poor Pupils’ Attendance

He distributed exercise books, mathematical sets at St Michael’s Primary School, Yemetu, urges children to embrace education

Chief ‘Bowale Oluwole Arisekola, the Mogaji Ajenigieye of Oje, Ibadan, on Tuesday returned to his educational roots as he extended his back-to-school initiative to St Michael’s Primary School, Yemetu, Ibadan, where he distributed exercise books and mathematical sets to pupils.

The intervention provided another opportunity for the Ibadan-born businessman, philanthropist, media entrepreneur and community leader to demonstrate his commitment to educational development and the advancement of children from less privileged backgrounds.

Arisekola, who is also the Publisher of The Street Journal and President of the Association of Online Media Practitioners of Nigeria (AMPON), expressed concern over the low attendance of pupils observed during the visit, urging parents and guardians to take their children’s education more seriously.

He challenged the pupils to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their studies, stressing that education remains one of the most effective pathways out of poverty and a vital foundation for a better future.

According to him, children must understand that their present circumstances should not determine their future aspirations, adding that dedication to learning would equip them with the knowledge and skills required to overcome life’s challenges.

The Mogaji encouraged the pupils to make good use of the educational materials provided, explaining that the gesture was intended to support their learning and motivate them to develop a stronger commitment to academic excellence.

He also called on teachers and parents to work together in ensuring that children attend school regularly, receive proper guidance and are given the necessary encouragement to realise their potential.

Arisekola’s latest intervention is part of his sustained back-to-school programme, through which he has consistently provided educational materials to primary and secondary school pupils in Ibadan and other communities.

Over the years, the initiative has featured the distribution of thousands of exercise books, school bags and mathematical sets, alongside scholarship support for students at different stages of their education.

His educational interventions are complemented by other community development and humanitarian projects, reflecting his belief that improving the welfare of the people requires deliberate investment in education, basic amenities and opportunities for young people.

Notably, the Mogaji Wole Arisekola Foundation has also undertaken community infrastructure projects, including the provision of boreholes and public toilet facilities, as part of efforts to improve living conditions in his immediate environment.

Arisekola’s commitment to education is rooted in his conviction that an educated population is better equipped to confront poverty, unemployment and other social challenges.

His return to St Michael’s Primary School, Yemetu, therefore carried a message beyond the distribution of learning materials: successful individuals have a responsibility to support the institutions and communities that nurture the next generation.

The philanthropist has continued to encourage well-to-do individuals, particularly sons and daughters of Ibadanland, to contribute meaningfully to educational development and community welfare rather than leaving the responsibility entirely to government.

His latest visit further reinforces the importance of private individuals and community leaders complementing government efforts to improve access to quality education, particularly at the foundational level.

For the pupils who benefited from the exercise books and mathematical sets, the gesture offered practical learning support and an opportunity to draw inspiration from a community leader who continues to place education at the centre of his philanthropic interventions.