In line with Governor Okpebholo led administration’s effort to boost grassroots advocacy for child education, the Edo State Ministry of Education has carried out EduRescue Project with a sensitization campaign aimed at market women throughout Benin City. The initiative highlighted the vital role that mothers and traders play in shaping a brighter future for the Edo child.
The event gathered market women representatives across the State for an interactive awareness session.
During the gathering at Oba-Erediauwa by Pauligo Plaza, Upper Mission extension, Benin City, Mrs. Iyayi Omosaye from the Ministry’s Stakeholders Department and Mrs. Uzezi Uduefe-Iveho a representative from the Honourable Commissioner’s office emphasized the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu’s commitment to ensuring that every child in Edo State has access to education.
The representatives stated, “Education isn’t solely the government’s responsibility. It begins at home. As mothers and market women, you hold the power to ensure children seen in the market space are enrolled and remain in school. This is the essence of EduRescue, securing the future through education”.
The EduRescue team discussed the risks associated with child hawking, the issue of early school dropouts, and the long-term effects of denying children, particularly girls, access to quality education. They also provided information on how to access Government-supported free basic education, adult learning centres ( EDOSABI READ) and Technical Education.
Meanwhile, the State Market Association leader, Mrs. Josephine Ibhaguezele described the program as an eye-opener.
“Sometimes children collect money from their parents which teachers never requested for. It’s necessary that parents visit schools to know more about their children. We will henceforth take responsibilities and support the State Government on this initiative”. She said.
The Ministry also shared with them the hotlines they can call when the need arises.
The EduRescue Project is part of the Ministry’s larger initiative to achieve Universal Basic Education in Edo State. The campaigns are set to take place across the three Senatorial Districts of Edo State.
Etinosa Odigie
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Education
PHOTO CAPTION
A Cross-section of EduRescue Project Team and Market Women Association during the sensitization campaign held in Benin City
