Polaris Bank Partners to Empower 16,000 Students, Tackles Out-of-School Crisis in Nigeria

Polaris Bank, in collaboration with strategic partners, has intensified efforts to address the growing challenge of out-of-school children in Nigeria, ensuring that over 16,000 students have access to education since the initiative began in 2020.

The Bank’s latest intervention saw the distribution of school essentials to 1,000 students across 10 public schools in five states, further solidifying its commitment to inclusive and equitable education. These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which advocates for quality education for all, particularly in vulnerable communities where over 20 million children lack access to basic education.

Through its holistic approach, Polaris Bank not only provides tangible learning materials such as school bags, uniforms, sandals, books, and pens but also equips students with critical life skills through the Brighter Minds Programme. This transformative initiative incorporates brain-training techniques and emotional intelligence education, designed to foster resilience, focus, and confidence in young learners.

Speaking about the initiative, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, emphasized the Bank’s dedication to reducing the out-of-school children population and empowering the girl child while ensuring inclusivity for male students.

“Our intervention reflects Polaris Bank’s sustainability goals and our commitment to creating opportunities for every Nigerian child to access quality education. By bridging these educational gaps, we are contributing to a brighter future for our youth and our nation,” Lawal stated.

The most recent phase of the project targeted schools across diverse regions, including Opebi Junior Grammar School in Lagos, National High School Arondizuogu, and Iheme Memorial Secondary School in Imo, as well as institutions in Kano, Kogi, and Abuja. Visits to Gbaja Girls Junior and High Secondary School in Surulere, Lagos, have been rescheduled for January 2025 to ensure thorough implementation.

The initiative has also trained teachers through the Inspire Teachers Training Program, a three-day workshop aimed at equipping educators with soft skills, alternative teaching methodologies, and strategies to enhance heterogeneous learning. Graduating teachers receive certificates and are encouraged to cascade their knowledge to colleagues, creating a ripple effect of improved teaching standards.

Polaris Bank’s long-term vision is to support 50,000 students by 2028, building on its success with 16,000 beneficiaries across nine states. The initiative highlights the power of collaboration, with partners such as EvolveCSR playing a key role in ensuring that the impact reaches the most underserved communities.

As Polaris Bank continues its mission, it remains steadfast in its belief that empowering students and supporting educators is essential to nurturing the next generation of Nigeria’s leaders. Through sustained and impactful interventions, the Bank is not just providing access to education but also fostering a culture of excellence, resilience, and hope for the future.