The holiday coaching programme sponsored by Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has begun to yield remarkable results, with beneficiaries praising the initiative as their academic performances show significant improvement.
The programme, which aims to enhance the educational standing of secondary school students within Oyo South Senatorial District, has already made a noticeable impact, with many students achieving commendable success in their examinations.
The holiday coaching programme, launched in 2023 to provide SSS2 students intensive lessons during the holiday period, initially covered 18 centres across the nine local government areas within the Oyo South Senatorial District (two centres per local government).
Recognising the growing need for educational support, Senator Alli expanded the initiative to 20 centres this year, allowing even more students to benefit from the ongoing free educational assistance.
In 2023, to evaluate the effectiveness of the coaching, a mock examination was conducted at the end of the programme.
The top three students from each of the 18 centres were rewarded with scholarships covering their West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees, a significant financial relief for many families in the senatorial district.
Reflecting on the programme’s success, Senator Alli announced further support for students who are able to secure admission to higher institutions.
In collaboration with an NGO, Good Governance and Development Initiative (GGDI), Senator Alli pledged, at least, N100,000 to each of the 54 students who gain admission this year.
“This support will continue annually until they graduate, provided they maintain a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) not lower than a Second Class Upper grade,” Senator Alli said.
The senator’s initiative has not only alleviated the financial burden on many families but has also motivated students to strive for academic excellence.
Senator Alli’s investment on our future leaders should be commended as it provides a life-long benefit to the community as different from mere distribution of food and other transient items with transient benefit to the society.
Some parents in their various remarks have also lauded Senator Alli’s foresight and dedication to education.
They said Senator Alli’s holiday coaching programme was more than just a temporary intervention, but part of a broader vision to nurture the next generation of leaders in Oyo South Senatorial District.
“This initiative has taken a great deal of financial pressure off our shoulders. Senator Alli has given our children a chance to succeed, and we are deeply grateful,” they said.
His commitment to supporting these students throughout their academic journey underscores the dedication of Senator Alli to building a brighter future for the community.
As the programme continues to expand, its positive impact on students becomes increasingly evident.
The outstanding results achieved by the students serve as a testament to the programme’s success and an inspiration for other leaders to follow.
Meanwhile, beneficiaries have expressed immense gratitude, emphasising the critical role the holiday coaching classes played in their academic achievements.
“Before attending the holiday coaching classes, I struggled with several subjects. The teachers at the centres were patient and helped me understand difficult concepts.
“The mock exam was a great way to identify areas where I needed improvement, and having my WAEC fees covered was a huge relief.
“I thank God and Senator Alli for this initiative. I sat for the West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and my result was very outstanding,” one of the beneficiaries said.
Another student said the lasting impact of the initiative would be felt for years to come as he and other students continue to excel and contribute positively to society.
“Senator Alli has shown us what it means to be a leader who genuinely cares about the people. I hope that one day I can give back to my community in the same way,” she said.
With this holiday coaching programme, Senator Alli is not only fostering academic excellence, but he is also instilling hope and ambition in the hearts of young people.
•Abas is the Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Oyo South Senatorial District.
