The Ekiti State Government has disbursed N259.45 million as running grants to public primary schools across the state.

The Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Femi Akinwumi, while flagging off the distribution of cheques to the benefitting schools in Ado-Ekiti said the grants were aimed at ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of public primary schools, covering maintenance and provision of teaching and learning materials.

Akinwumi noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration to strengthening the basic education sector and creating a conducive learning environment for pupils.

He explained that the funds were distributed to the 927 public Primary Schools in the state based on school enrolment to ensure fairness.

The SUBEB chairman stressed the need for accountability, urging school heads and administrators to ensure prudent and transparent use of the funds.

“These grants are a testament to the government’s commitment to quality basic education. Every kobo must be utilised effectively to improve the learning environment and academic outcomes of pupils,” he said.

He also warned against mismanagement and directed beneficiaries to strictly adhere to financial guidelines.

In her remarks, the SUBEB Commissioner for Human Resource Management, Dr. Olufunke Fajobi, commended primary school teachers for their dedication, noting their critical role in achieving the state’s education goals.

She also lauded the administration for prioritising teachers’ welfare and infrastructure development, citing initiatives such as the provision of instructional materials, training and retraining programmes, and the promotion of over 5,000 teachers.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of SUBEB, Mr Michael Omolayo, urged beneficiaries to redouble their efforts to improve pupils’ performance.

He called on teachers to remain committed, diligent and dedicated to delivering quality basic education, describing children as one of the state’s greatest assets.

Some headteachers who spoke at the event commended the government for the gesture and pledged to utilise the funds judiciously.

They expressed optimism that the grants would help address basic challenges in their schools and improve learning conditions.