IBADAN/Nigeria: In a move aimed at alleviating the repercussions of the fuel subsidy removal, the Oyo State Government has swiftly sanctioned the disbursement of car loans to primary school teachers across all regions of the state.
The groundbreaking decision was unveiled recently in Ibadan by the Coordinating Director of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Jacob Dairo at a press conference.
Speaking at the press conference, Mr. Dairo emphasized that the initiative was conceived as a palliative measure to support educators navigating the current economic landscape.
“This multi-tranche loan program is meticulously designed to soften the blow dealt by the fuel subsidy removal on the dedicated primary school teachers of Oyo State,” affirmed Mr. Dairo, highlighting the government’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of its education workforce.
The loan distribution mechanism, according to Mr. Dairo, is a testament to the magnanimous approval of the scheme by Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State. The Governor, steadfast in his commitment to equitable treatment, has insisted on an impartial allocation of loans to all educators, devoid of any preferential treatment.
“We want to ensure that all teachers, without exception, benefit from this scheme,” Governor Makinde stressed through a directive, underlining the government’s dedication to fostering unity and parity within the teaching fraternity.
As the car loans become available, beneficiaries are enjoined by Mr. Dairo to employ the financial assistance judiciously and purposefully. The fund, intended to mitigate the fuel subsidy’s aftershocks, holds the potential to invigorate the financial resilience of primary school educators.
Facilitated through reputable financial institutions, the loans are stipulated to be repaid over a 40-month period, thereby extending a manageable repayment window for the beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, articulated the state’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the educational landscape during a visit to the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board. Professor Abdulwaheed affirmed the government’s intention to bolster the foundational education sector by not only recruiting additional educators but also by ensuring comprehensive training for existing staff members.
“This administration’s vision encompasses a holistic approach to education. We are resolved to augment the teaching force while prioritizing continuous professional development,” remarked Professor Abdulwaheed, signifying the government’s comprehensive strategy for educational empowerment.
In response, Mr. Dairo expressed his optimism regarding the reinforced collaboration between the Education Board and the Ministry of Education. Underpinning the overarching goal of transforming the education sector, Mr. Dairo underscored the imperative for synergy among all education-related entities and the Ministry of Education.
In the wake of these initiatives, Oyo State’s educational landscape stands poised for rejuvenation, with car loans serving as a lifeline for primary school teachers and a comprehensive vision set in motion to elevate the state’s basic education sector.
