The Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) has launched a significant educational intervention program, distributing essential laboratory equipment, books, and learning materials to schools across Nigeria. This initiative forms part of the organization's broader strategy to enhance educational quality and systematically address poverty in the country.
Comprehensive Educational Support Initiative
During the grand finale of the 2025 LAPO Annual Secondary School Quiz Competition in Akure, Ondo State, the organization revealed its substantial contributions to Nigeria's education sector. LAPO President Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, represented by Obadiora Honestus, emphasized that quality education remains fundamental to meaningfully tackling poverty in Nigeria.
The organization disclosed that since 2008, over 4,000 students across secondary, tertiary, and vocational institutions have benefited from LAPO scholarship programs. This long-term commitment demonstrates the organization's dedication to creating educational opportunities for Nigerian youth regardless of their economic background.
Annual Quiz Competition Fosters Academic Excellence
The 2025 quiz competition concluded with Seat of Wisdom Catholic College, Alagbaka, Akure emerging as the overall winner. Model Secondary School, Alagbaka, Akure secured second position, while Greater Tomorrow International College, Ikare-Akoko claimed third place.
Osazuwa-Ojo highlighted that the competition, first instituted in Edo State in 2006, has expanded significantly over the years. The program reached Delta State in 2015 and Ondo State in 2023, consistently growing its impact on science education nationwide.
"For nearly two decades, this quiz has been more than a competition; it is a deliberate intervention to reward diligence and stimulate intellectual growth," she stated. This year's edition saw over 100 secondary schools participate in preliminary rounds, with finalists representing what organizers described as "the intellectual elite who have overcome demanding academic challenges."
Addressing Critical Educational Challenges
While celebrating the competition's success, LAPO leadership expressed serious concerns about Nigeria's education sector. Osazuwa-Ojo specifically highlighted infrastructural deficits, limited access to modern learning tools, and low STEM engagement in rural communities as pressing issues requiring immediate attention.
"There is a critical need to inspire commitment to science disciplines and provide resources that will prepare learners for the 21st-century economy," she stressed, underscoring the importance of equipping students with relevant skills for future economic participation.
The event chairperson, Professor Folashade Olajuyigbe, National Chairperson of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Nigeria Chapter, commended LAPO for its sustained investment in educational development. "Beyond microfinance, LAPO has consistently nurtured young talent. This initiative proves that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty."
Professor Olajuyigbe encouraged participants to embrace innovation and problem-solving approaches, emphasizing that "our children must move beyond memorisation. They should ask thoughtful questions, seek creative solutions and work collaboratively" to thrive in today's rapidly evolving world.
Government Recognition and Support
The Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, represented by Mr. Adekunle Henry, praised LAPO's consistent support for educational advancement. He urged other organizations to emulate this impactful initiative, recognizing the crucial role of private sector involvement in complementing government efforts to improve education standards.
The top three winning schools received science and laboratory equipment among other educational support items, providing them with essential resources to enhance their science education programs and practical learning experiences.
