Determined to reshape the educational landscape of Ondo State and ensure school-aged children have access to education, the state government has presented a certificate of approval for the takeover of Olukoju Community High School, Agbomo/Olukoju, Ijoka, Akure—almost five years after the school was established.

The Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, Mrs. Folaahade Adegoke, said the event marked more than just an administrative shift; it signified hope and continuity for future generations.

The school, she said, was originally established through grassroots efforts and sustained by passionate educators and volunteers. It now enjoys the full backing of the state government.

She added that, with the transition, the school will receive essential infrastructure upgrades, an increase in trained teaching personnel, and operational support—critical resources that will help families who have struggled with the financial burden of private tuition.

Represented by the Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics in the ministry, Mr. Folorunso Omooluwa, the Permanent Secretary said the development was not just a ceremony, but a powerful transformation. She explained that the long-awaited government takeover of the community-founded school had finally become a reality.

According to her, “This is a state of joy, not only for the students, but for every family, every elder, every youth who fought for this dream,” she said. “Today, this school ceases to be just a community effort—it becomes a government-recognised secondary school, equipped with the promise of growth, access, and excellence.”

Mrs. Adegoke described the scene as “a testimony to what can happen when a community and government walk hand in hand.”

She emphasised that the Ondo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, remains deeply committed to educational reforms that prioritise rural communities, equal opportunities, and qualitative learning environments.

Permanent Secretary, who described education as the pillar upon which everything else rests, stressed that without education, the world would be in darkness.

“So, education is light. It has always existed, but it is growing brighter now because there will be an expansion of infrastructure. Then, the teachers will be better supported and will enjoy greater job satisfaction,” she noted.

In his speech at the event, the Principal of the school, Pastor Oladipo Samuel, said the community school, which was established in 2020, commenced operations with just two students and one teacher before more teachers were employed.

The principal expressed joy over the government’s takeover of the school under the Aiyedatiwa-led administration, saying the present government is doing the needful to enhance the education sector in the state.

Speaking at the event, the Olujoka of Ijoka Kingdom, HRM Oba Anthony Oluwalade, described the official takeover of the school as a significant achievement by the government.

The traditional ruler, who commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for recognising the need for quality education in the community, described the gesture as a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering development.

The school, according to him, is a beacon of hope, providing opportunities for children to acquire knowledge, skills, and values.

While pledging the community’s support for the school’s growth into a centre of excellence, the monarch urged youths to seize the opportunity by embracing education as a tool for personal and community development.