Prince Olanrewaju Osibote, founder of the Margaret Modinat Foundation (MMF), has called on the government to provide greater support for pupils in public schools. Speaking at MMF’s 2024 Children’s Day celebration at Agege Stadium, Osibote underscored the potential of public school students and the need for more investment in their education.
The event brought together pupils from seven public schools in Agege, Lagos, to celebrate Children’s Day. Osibote emphasized the talent and potential within public schools, stating, “At the schools, we noticed that many children are better than those in private schools, and if the government can look into that, it will be okay. We should not forget most people in government today passed through public schools; so they should invest more in the schools so pupils can be useful tomorrow.”
Osibote founded MMF in honor of her late mother, continuing her legacy of philanthropy and support for education. “My mother had a passion for humanity, so after her death, I carried on her legacy. I remembered when I was younger, I was always looking forward to Children’s Day. I remember as a child we used to dance and do other activities on Children’s Day, but today it’s not common in public schools, and I felt that I could do something. Initially, I was scared if I could manage the population, but I had support from friends,” she explained.
The Children’s Day celebration featured a variety of activities designed to engage and entertain the students, including dancing, a fashion parade, and ball-picking games. The event aimed to provide a joyful and memorable experience for the pupils, reinforcing the importance of education and community support.
Kehinde Joseph, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee of the House of Assembly and a guest at the event, praised MMF’s efforts. “I want to thank MMF for celebrating our children and to encourage us that the future is bright. Our parents should let their children go to school because without education a child will be limited. Also, I want to encourage givers to emulate this foundation,” he said.
Raji Muritala Olamilekan of Amosun Primary School called for public support, especially for children with disabilities. “We handle children with disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, hearing impairment, among others. Some can acquire education while others are placed on skills. We should not look down on them or conclude nothing good can come out of them. Those acquiring skills will no longer depend on people,” he emphasized.
The celebration also included a match pass competition, with Sango Primary School winning first place and receiving a trophy. Local Government Primary School and Keke Primary School took second and third places, respectively.
Through the Margaret Modinat Foundation, Osibote continues to champion the cause of public education and community development, highlighting the need for increased government investment in public schools. Her efforts reflect a deep commitment to nurturing the potential of every child and ensuring that all students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.