Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) has distributed bags and other writing materials to indigent pupils in Kwara State.
Over 100 students from 10 different secondary and primary schools were supported with a bag, ten exercise books and other writing materials worth over N35,000 each.
The event was the foundation’s second edition of its back-to-school initiative.
Speaking at the ceremony, the state coordinator of ZSF, Engr Ariyo Basheer Olalekan, told Daily Trust that the programme was to support the government in providing quality education for the needy.
“This was prompted after we realised some indigent students going to school without bags while others used sacks of Semo vita.
“But this is not just financial support, but rather a vote of confidence in their potentials and abilities and we want to see them excel.
“As you return to school, I charge you to face your academic pursuits squarely. Let this support motivate you to work harder, dream bigger, and strive for excellence.
“Remember that education is the key to unlocking your future, and we are proud to be a part of your journey”, he noted.
Ariyo expressed gratitude to donors and supporters for their contributions adding that the payment of their Zakat and Sadaqah have made a significant impact in the lives of the beneficiaries.
The guest speaker at the occasion, Ustadh Harun Ahmad Akao, encouraged Muslim to be diligent and disciplined in fulfilling their Zakat obligations.
He advised the beneficiaries to ensure they make the best use of the items to improve their education.
He said Allah has decreed that we will always have the poor and the rich in any society with a friction among the two groups.
“That is why Allah legislated Zakat and encouraged Sadaqah to be collected and distributed.
“And one of the best ways to empower people is to support their education”, he stated.
A beneficiary, Mafolasere Damilare, thanked the organisers for the gesture which he said will go a long way in supporting and improving their quest for education.
“Before now, my bag was badly thorn and it has been a struggle getting another one because my parents are poor and the economic situation has really worsened things for us”.
On her part, a female beneficiary, Mofoluwaso Safrahu, appreciated the genuineness of ZSF and promised to make the best
“We have seen instances where people in the name of foundation have brought things and video us just for publicity, nothing gets to us. But this is real despite its worth in the present hardships”, she said.
A parent, Habitat Jimoh, said the gesture “was a huge relief and will go a long way to relieve us of a burden”.
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