GAMSU launches Ideal School Campaign to upgrade public schools in Nigeria

The Gamaliel & Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU) has launched the 2026 edition of its Ideal School Campaign, an initiative aimed at identifying and renovating a public school in Nigeria in need of urgent infrastructural support.

Established in 2013, the foundation focuses on improving the lives of children and young people through innovative and flexible educational opportunities. The Ideal School Campaign reflects GAMSU’s belief that quality learning environments are essential to meaningful education, with safe and dignified spaces playing a critical role in student outcomes.

Community nominations open nationwide

The Ideal School Campaign operates as an open nomination programme, inviting communities across Nigeria to nominate public schools that require renovation. Communities, alumni associations, parents, teachers and concerned citizens are encouraged to submit nominations, supported by clear evidence outlining the school’s needs.

GAMSU said schools will not be selected at random, but through a structured assessment process that considers the severity of infrastructural challenges, the potential impact of intervention, feasibility and logistics, as well as available funding.

Eligible states and nomination timeline

Public primary and secondary schools located in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Kaduna and Nassarawa states are eligible for nomination.

The campaign timeline is as follows:

• Nomination period: 9 February to 28 February 2026

• Assessment period: 1 March to 31 March 2026

• Announcement of selected school: April 2026

All submissions will be assessed using a transparent and standardised framework based on infrastructure condition, safety risks, access to water and sanitation, enrolment size and impact potential, as well as community readiness and sustainability.

While photos and short videos shared on social media platforms such as Instagram and X can support nominations, GAMSU emphasised that all schools must be formally submitted through the official nomination process to be considered.

Focus on dignity and access in education

The foundation said the campaign aligns with its broader mission to strengthen educational access and quality across Nigeria.

Through the Ideal School Campaign, GAMSU aims to demonstrate a model of excellence in public education by transforming one school into a safe, functional and inspiring learning environment.

The organisation noted that it remains committed to improving education outcomes “one student, one school, and one community at a time”.