Literal Scholars hosts workshop to address educational challenges in Kwara

Literal Scholars Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving education, marked its 4th anniversary with a one-day workshop aimed at tackling the pressing issues in Kwara State’s education system.

Held in Igando, Lagos, the event gathered 12 volunteers who underwent training in design thinking and human management to develop innovative solutions for the state’s educational challenges.

During the workshop, participants highlighted key issues such as the lack of inclusive education, poor community engagement, and insufficient student support.

Through group presentations and brainstorming sessions, volunteers proposed practical solutions to address these concerns.

Founder and Director of Literal Scholars Initiative, Mustopha Musliudeen, emphasized the need for urgent action, referencing a recent outreach program, the “Educate An African Child Project,” which exposed critical deficiencies in Kwara State schools.

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“Our May 2024 outreach revealed shocking realities, with schools lacking basic facilities and teachers often absent. Students in the highest primary classes couldn’t recite the national anthem or spell their names, showcasing the dire need for educational reform,” Mustopha explained.

Rodiyah Shonibare, one of the workshop’s volunteers, stressed the importance of training teachers in effective teaching methods, adding, “Teachers must be equipped with the right skills to positively impact the education system. The current rate of out-of-school children in Kwara is a clear sign that something needs to change.”

Habeeb Emiola, the Community Outreach Manager, described the workshop as a key milestone in the organization’s ongoing efforts to complement government initiatives. “Since its inception, Literal Scholars has impacted over 2,000 students. We aim to reach 5,000 pupils and train 500 teachers in Kwara over the next five years,” Emiola said.

The workshop also featured active participation from several attendees, including Ahmod Ajiyan, Monsur Odofin, and Rofiah Adegbola, among others.

Literal Scholars Initiative continues to be a driving force in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, with a focus on ensuring long-term, sustainable solutions.