In a strong endorsement of collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors in education, Her Excellency, Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Josephine Piyo, has praised Oando Foundation, an independent charity committed to supporting Nigeria’s Universal Basic Education goals, for its sustained efforts in reintegrating out-of-school children through its LEARNOVATE-FLIP (Foundational Learning Improvement Programme) initiative.
During the official handover of back-to-school materials in Jos, Plateau State, the Deputy Governor highlighted the significance of the intervention for marginalised children and its alignment with the state's inclusive education agenda. She said, “Today marks a significant step in our collective efforts to improve the quality of education in Plateau State. It is heartwarming to witness the commitment of organisations like the Oando Foundation in supporting the education sector. Education is the key to unlocking the potential of every child and paving the way for a brighter future.
"By providing back-to-school learning materials to enroll out-of-school children, we are giving them the tools to succeed in life. I express my gratitude to the Oando Foundation for their generous support in organizing this event. Their dedication to promoting education and empowering communities is truly commendable. This distribution of learning materials will have a profound impact, not only enhancing learning but also instilling a sense of confidence and belonging in every child reached.”
The event drew attendance from key stakeholders at various government levels, including Builder Sunday Samuel Amuna, Chairman of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB); Mrs. Keithleen Rahab Favour Nyango, Director of Schools at the Ministry of Education; Isaiah Yauta Sambo, Education Secretary, Jos North; and Mrs. Bangtu Jennifer Michael (JP), Education Secretary, Mangu LGEA. Also present were HRH Ujah Anaguta, Pozo Johnson Jauro Magaji II, Traditional Ruler of Jos North, and representatives of HRH Da John Putmang Hirse, Chairman and Traditional Ruler of Mangu.
As part of the LEARNOVATE-FLIP programme, the Foundation distributed over 1,000 back-to-school kits to newly enrolled out-of-school children in Jos North and Mangu Local Government Areas. The kits—comprising backpacks, stationery, exercise and handwriting books, school uniforms, and sandals—aim to boost school readiness and support continuous learning for vulnerable children.
Speaking on the Foundation’s broader commitment, Tonia Uduimoh, Head of Oando Foundation, emphasised: “Education is fundamental, and as a Foundation committed to social impact, we believe it's our responsibility to complement government efforts where it matters most. Since 2023, our work has been anchored on the LEARNOVATE strategy, with a strong focus on improving foundational literacy and numeracy. When a child gains basic reading and math skills early, it doesn’t just prepare them for the next grade — it sets them up for lifelong learning. But we also know that too many children, especially those on the margins of society, are being left behind.
Under the LEARNOVATE-FLIP programme, we’re not only supporting children already in school, we’re also working to identify and reintegrate out-of-school children into the formal education system. What you're seeing today in Plateau State is a direct result of that effort. Over 4,000 children have been mobilised so far and integrated into formal education across Plateau, Sokoto, and Ebonyi States. What we are doing is to provide basic resources and support, and we are committed to ensuring every child succeeds.”
Through this initiative, Oando Foundation is confronting learning poverty by equipping early-grade learners with essential academic tools while fostering environments that encourage school retention. Launched in 2024, the LEARNOVATE-FLIP programme spans four states—Ebonyi, Plateau, Sokoto, and Adamawa, focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy development.
Rooted in Sustainable Development Goal 4, the programme integrates early-grade reading strategies and remedial instruction, delivered in both English and mother tongue, to build strong reading and comprehension skills. It also invests in teacher training and system-wide sustainability by empowering education officers to create more engaging classroom experiences.
By leveraging technology, community engagement, and innovative practices, the Foundation continues to bridge educational gaps and foster inclusive, future-ready learning ecosystems across underserved communities.
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