POLARIS BANK PARTNERS TO SUPPORT 16,000 STUDENTS, TACKLING OUT-OF-SCHOOL CHILDREN IN NIGERIA

… Distributes school essentials to 1,000 students across 10 public schools in 5 states

Polaris Bank, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has reinforced its dedication to addressing Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis. Through its sustained educational initiatives, the Bank has positively impacted over 16,000 students, providing essential resources and opportunities for a brighter future.

This transformative project, with a focus on empowering the girl child while ensuring inclusivity for male students, has emphasized the need for equitable education. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which advocates for inclusive and quality education, the initiative targets Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities where over 20 million children lack basic educational access, as reported by UNESCO.

Since 2020, Polaris Bank, alongside its strategic partners, has spearheaded this mission, ensuring access to education for thousands of children. This year’s phase included distributing school essentials—bags, uniforms, sandals, books, and pens—to 1,000 students across diverse regions, effectively removing barriers to school enrollment and retention.

Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, emphasized the initiative’s significance during his remarks, urging students to maximize the opportunities provided by education. “This intervention reflects the Bank’s commitment to reducing the population of out-of-school children and increasing access to quality education, especially for the girl-child,” he stated.

Between November and December 2024, the Bank visited eight public schools across five states, including:

Opebi Junior Grammar School, Lagos

National High School, Arondizuogu, Imo State

Iheme Memorial Secondary School, Imo State

Akokwa High School, Imo State

Government Girls Secondary School, Kundila, Kano

Fortune Secondary School, Kogi

Government Day Junior Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja

The final leg of the initiative for Gbaja Girls Junior and Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos, has been rescheduled for mid-January 2025, underscoring Polaris Bank’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring no child is left behind.

Innovative Programs for Holistic Education

Beyond distributing essentials, Polaris Bank’s intervention integrates the Brighter Minds Programme, a groundbreaking initiative equipping students with brain-training techniques and emotional intelligence. This program aims to build resilience, confidence, and focus, fostering holistic development in young learners.

Additionally, the Inspire Teachers Training Program, a 3-day workshop for educators, focuses on equipping teachers with critical soft skills and innovative teaching methodologies. Participants explore topics such as facilitation techniques, moral skill development, and heart-centered education. Certified teachers are encouraged to train their peers, creating a ripple effect that enhances the education system.

A Vision for the Future

Polaris Bank’s efforts are a step towards its ambitious goal of supporting 50,000 students by 2028. Through strategic partnerships and impactful initiatives, the Bank continues to play a leading role in bridging Nigeria’s educational gap, ensuring a brighter future for the country’s youth.