Truconnected, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has donated 20 laptops to eight educational institutions in Ondo State, comprising three tertiary institutions and five secondary schools, as part of its commitment to bridging the digital divide.
The donation event, held on Friday in Akure, was conducted in partnership with the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
The initiative was themed: “Repurpose, Empower and Transform: Sustainability & the Importance of Bridging the Digital Divide.”
Founder of Truconnected, Mr. Kaye Kuye, said the donation was aimed at creating a future where access to technology is considered a fundamental human right.
“Digital access creates opportunities, and opportunities drive change,” Kuye stated.
“To every recipient, this is your moment. Invest in yourself, learn new skills, and use this tool for growth and good.”
He emphasized that the laptops symbolized power and opportunity, and every time a Truconnected laptop is powered on, it ignites possibilities for education and transformation.
Truconnected’s Program Director, Mrs. Yemi Agbede, explained that the three benefiting tertiary institutions represent each of Ondo State’s senatorial districts. They include:
Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA) – Ondo North
Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) – Ondo Central
Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OAUSTECH) – Ondo South
She added that five secondary schools, including one for students with disabilities, also received laptops.
Among them were Anglican Grammar School, Ijare; Ijo-Mimo Oluwa High School, Akure; and Aquinas College, Akure.
In his keynote address, Mr. Tomide Akinribido, SSA to the Governor on ICT, urged society to embrace digital literacy, highlighting the state government’s recent training of 500 youths in ICT.
“Access to computers bridges the gap between underserved communities and the rest of society,” Akinribido said.
“With WAEC and NECO examinations transitioning to Computer-Based Tests, this initiative is timely and strategic.”
Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, lauded Truconnected’s effort, noting that the initiative aligns with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s digital empowerment agenda.
“This will not only improve students’ academic performance but also connect them to global opportunities,” she said.
Dr. Akindele Ige, Administrative Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, also appreciated the gesture and encouraged more NGOs and individuals to support education and reduce government’s financial burden.
Two student beneficiaries, Akintade Ayomide (Anglican Grammar School, Ijare) and Oyeleye Favour (Ijo-Mimo Oluwa High School, Akure), expressed gratitude to Truconnected and pledged to make the most of the laptops.