……Education remains top priority in Ondo State – Gov Aiyedatiwa
By University Press PLC donates 3,875 books to Ondo State schools textbooks to the Ondo State Government in support of its education and human capital development agenda.
The donation, valued at over ₦12 million, comprises textbooks covering Primary One to Senior Secondary School Three and was formally presented during a courtesy visit by the management of the publishing firm to the Governor’s office on Monday
Speaking during the presentation, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of University Press PLC, Mr. Samuel Kolawole, said the gesture was part of the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to Ondo State, which he described as “home.”
According to him, University Press PLC, which began operations in Nigeria in 1949 as the Nigerian arm of Oxford University Press UK, is now largely Nigerian-owned, with Oxford University Press UK retaining just over 10 per cent equity.
“We have enjoyed decades of cordial and mutually beneficial relationships with Ondo State, particularly through the State Universal Basic Education Board, which has consistently recommended our books for use,” Kolawole said.
“This donation is our modest way of appreciating the support and hospitality we have received over the years.”
He noted that the company maintains an office in Akure and employs staff from the state, adding that University Press PLC has previously supported the state with similar interventions, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The donated books, he explained, are transparently priced and verifiable, stressing that the company maintains an office in Akure where members of the public can confirm the actual market value of the materials.
“We are not inflating figures. The list of books and their prices will be handed over officially. We hope this marks the beginning of even deeper collaboration with the government and people of Ondo State,” he added.
Responding, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended University Press PLC for its consistency in supporting education, describing the gesture as a direct contribution to human capital development.
He said the donation aligns with the policy thrust of the present administration, particularly its focus on education as a pillar of economic growth.
“By providing learning materials from the primary to secondary levels, you are strengthening the foundation of our education system and contributing meaningfully to the development of a knowledge-based economy,” the Deputy Governor said.
He assured the management of University Press PLC of the state government’s continued support, noting that the partnership between both parties has remained strong across different administrations.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human capital development and education which remains top priority in Ondo State.
In attendance were; Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun; SUBEB Chairman, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan; Director General, Performance and Project Implementation Monitoring Unit, Engr. Rasaq Obe; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Technical and Vocational Education; Mr Tayo Oluyi.