Osun government rejects claim of 297,000 out-of-school children
The Osun State Government has rejected a report alleging it has the highest number of out-of-school children in the South-West. Adekilekun Jimoh, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, clarified that the figure of 297,000 was never presented at a recent media dialogue. He explained that the actual number discussed was about 97,000 learners enrolled in education programmes, not out-of-school children. The government urged the media to verify information before publication to prevent misinformation.
What we know
- Adekilekun Jimoh stated that the figure of 297,000 out-of-school children was never mentioned at the media dialogue organised by the Osun State Ministry of Education and UNICEF.
- The actual figure presented was approximately 97,000 learners enrolled on the Nigeria Learning Passport and Passport to Earn platforms in Osun State.
- The government described the report as misleading and damaging, and called for its withdrawal and an apology.
- The initiatives mentioned aim to expand access to learning and digital skills for children and young people in Osun.
- The Osun State Government emphasized the importance of accurate reporting to avoid misconceptions about the state's education sector.
