Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has launched a transformative free education programme aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children by removing financial barriers to basic education. Covering pupils from primary school through Junior Secondary School (JSS3), the initiative is already making significant strides in getting children off the streets and back into classrooms across the state.
Mrs. Mary Ejeh, Director of Child at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, revealed that the state government, through targeted interventions, is providing access to public education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. She commended the administration’s efforts in implementing the initiative, which has significantly reduced the number of out-of-school children in the state.
The program not only restores dignity and hope to vulnerable children but also reinforces the full implementation of the Child Rights Act in the state. While no prosecutions have yet been recorded, the government remains vigilant and committed to upholding children’s rights, with an open-door policy for reporting violations. Governor Alia’s administration continues to demonstrate compassion-driven governance, making education a cornerstone for societal transformation and future prosperity in Benue State.
