At least 12 high-achieving pupils from public primary schools in Kwara State have been awarded fully funded scholarships for their secondary education under the Kwara State Education Trust Fund (Kwara-ETF).

The beneficiaries were unveiled during an orientation programme for the first set of awardees, where Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described the development of Nigeria's education system as a costly but shared responsibility.

He urged wealthy individuals, corporate organisations, and foundations to join the government in supporting public education either through infrastructure development or by sponsoring students who demonstrate exceptional academic brilliance and dedication.

The Governor disclosed that the 12 scholars were selected based on outstanding performance at various screening stages conducted by the Kwara-ETF, underscoring the fund's commitment to merit-based intervention and equitable access to quality education.

The full-cost scholarship covers tuition, learning materials, boarding, and other essential needs throughout the students' secondary school journey.

"We urge members of the public to also donate and adopt students. Don't just leave the responsibility to the government and the PTAs (Parents and Teachers Associations). Educating our children is our collective responsibility," the Governor said.

Governor AbdulRazaq commended the selection process and congratulated the winners.

In a remark, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Education Trust Fund (Kwara-ETF) , Oluwadamilola Amolegbe, said the 12 pupils emerged from the initial shortlist of 640 pupils based on merit.

She explained that the selection process began with exams for all Primary Six pupils under the KwaraLEARN digital literacy programme, from which the final beneficiaries emerged.