Polaris Bank, in collaboration with its partners, has embarked on a significant initiative to address the pervasive issue of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Recognizing the critical role of education in individual and societal development, the bank has committed to supporting students and ensuring their continued access to quality learning opportunities. While the program prioritizes empowering the girl child, its inclusive nature extends support to male students within the targeted schools. This comprehensive approach underscores the bank’s commitment to fostering a more equitable educational landscape for all children, regardless of gender.
Since its inception in 2020, the collaborative endeavor has made remarkable strides, impacting the lives of 16,000 students. The initiative goes beyond simply providing access to education; it equips young learners with essential life skills such as brain training techniques and emotional intelligence education. These skills are crucial for navigating the complexities of life, enhancing academic performance, and fostering well-rounded individuals. The provision of essential school supplies like bags, uniforms, sandals, books, and pens further removes barriers to education and ensures that students can fully participate in their learning journey. This multifaceted approach aligns seamlessly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
The urgency of Polaris Bank’s intervention is underscored by the alarming statistics from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), which reveal that approximately 18.3 million Nigerian children are currently out of school. This staggering figure represents a significant loss of potential human capital and highlights the need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of this educational crisis. Polaris Bank’s initiative aims to contribute significantly to reducing this number and ensuring that more children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Kayode Lawal, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank, has emphasized the importance of education and encouraged students to embrace the opportunities it presents. He underscored the alignment of the intervention with the bank’s broader sustainability efforts, which prioritize reducing the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria and increasing access to quality education, particularly for the girl child. This commitment reflects the bank’s recognition of education as a fundamental human right and a catalyst for social and economic progress.
The current phase of the initiative has focused on reaching schools across various regions of Nigeria, ensuring a widespread impact. By distributing essential school supplies, the program aims to alleviate the financial burden on families and remove a significant obstacle to school attendance. The selected schools represent a diverse range of communities, reflecting the bank’s commitment to reaching marginalized populations and ensuring that no child is left behind.
Between November and December 2024, Polaris Bank visited eight schools across multiple states, including Lagos, Imo, Kano, Kogi, and Abuja. The distribution of school essentials aimed to create a more conducive learning environment for students and empower them to pursue their education with confidence. Two additional schools in Lagos were scheduled for visits in mid-January 2025, further expanding the reach of the program. The ambitious goal of supporting 50,000 students by 2028 underscores the bank’s long-term commitment to addressing the educational challenges facing Nigeria and fostering a brighter future for its young people. Through these combined efforts, Polaris Bank is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless children, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
