By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its dedication to fighting Nigeria’s alarming rate of out-of-school children.
In partnership with key stakeholders, the bank has shared necessary school supplies to 1,000 students across 10 public schools in five states. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader effort to provide continuous education to over 15,000 students, with a focus on empowering young girls.
Since 2020, Polaris Bank’s collaborative efforts with strategic partners have ensured that 16,000 students remain in school. The bank’s initiative is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to provide inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
The program includes providing school essentials such as bags, uniforms, sandals, books and pens, as well as empowering young learners with brain-training techniques and emotional intelligence education. Research has shown that the lack of basic school essentials is a significant barrier to school enrollment, contributing to the high number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, emphasized the importance of education, urging students to seize opportunities and stating that the intervention is part of the bank’s sustainability efforts aimed at reducing Nigeria’s out-of-school children population.
As part of its mission, Polaris Bank visited several schools across various states, including Lagos, Imo, Kano, Kogi and Abuja, providing essential school supplies to students. The program aims to support 50,000 students by 2028, building on its current impact.
In addition to providing school essentials, the initiative also includes the Brighter Minds Programme, which brings innovative brain-training techniques and emotional intelligence education to young learners.
The Inspire Teachers Training Program is another component of the initiative, aimed at equipping teachers with critical soft skills and alternative teaching methodologies. The program explores topics such as heartful teaching, facilitation techniques and moral skill development, and provides teachers with certificates upon completion.
Polaris Bank remains committed to bridging educational gaps and ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth through impactful and sustained interventions. By empowering students and supporting educators, the bank continues to lead efforts to transform the lives of Nigeria’s future leaders.
