The parents and other stakeholders in Ondo State are being encouraged by the government to lend their support to the newly implemented Education Endowment Levy, aimed at advancing the state’s education sector.
Reports indicate that the government has established an endowment fund, requiring every taxable adult to contribute an annual levy of N1000. The objective is to bolster the development of the education sector in the state.
During a developmental event for the initiative in Akure, Mr. Olufemi Agagu, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, elaborated on the significance of the endowment fund.
He emphasized its role in facilitating the provision of essential infrastructure and addressing various needs within public schools across the state.
The sensitisation campaign which kicked off with a road show in Akure was organised by the state Ministry of Education, Science and Technology in conjunction with the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service.
According to the commissioner, the fund became imperative to enable the state government to tackle the infrastructural deficit in the education sector and provide basic essential materials for its public schools and institutions.
Agagu said, “With other sectors contending for funding, it is almost difficult for the state government to single-handedly and adequately fund its over 300 secondary schools, 1,285 primary schools, three universities, one polytechnic, five technical colleges, three special schools and other professional and specialised institutions in the state.
“The campaign was aimed at enlightening every taxpayer in the state on why the government introduced the levy, and how it would assist in rebounding education and restoring hope in the sector.”
He urged corporate organizations and individuals with good intentions to collaborate with the state government in its endeavor to improve the basic infrastructure in public schools throughout the state.
During the awareness campaign conducted in the state’s three senatorial districts, Mr. Kayode Kolawole, the Secretary of the Ondo State Education Endowment Fund, expressed his satisfaction with the campaign’s outcome, deeming it a significant achievement.
He appealed to the public to comprehend the purpose of the endowment levy and work in harmony with the state government, emphasizing that funding the education sector should be a collective responsibility rather than solely relying on the government.
“With the introduction of the Education Endowment Levy, all taxable adults in the state from age 18 and above are required to pay a sum of N1,000 only every year.
“The N1,000 Education Endowment Levy, which covers a whole year, can be paid through the agency code of the state ministry of education, or bank transfer on your phone, while you can also ask any ODIRS official for a guide,” Kolawole explained.
