Daud Olatunji
Dangote Cement Plc has strengthened its intervention in education by donating classroom furniture and learning materials to Ladi-Lak Nursery and Primary School in Apapa, Lagos, as part of efforts to improve learning conditions in one of its host communities.
The donation, made through the company’s Clinker Terminal under its school support programme, included chairs, tables, school bags and other educational materials aimed at creating a more conducive environment for pupils and teachers.
The intervention attracted excitement among pupils and teachers of the school, who described the gesture as a significant boost to teaching and learning.
Speaking during the presentation, the Group Head of Social Performance, Dangote Cement, Wakeel Olayiwola, said the initiative was part of the company’s broader social investment programme covering education, healthcare, infrastructure development and economic empowerment.
Olayiwola said Dangote Cement considered its host communities important stakeholders and would continue to support initiatives capable of improving the quality of life of residents.
He said, “At Dangote, we continuously seek opportunities to support education, healthcare, infrastructure development and economic empowerment.
“These interventions reflect our belief that thriving communities are essential to sustainable growth.”
The Dangote Cement official also urged the pupils to take their studies seriously, describing education as a critical tool for personal development and future success.
He encouraged them to maximise the opportunities provided by the school, remain focused and work hard to achieve their aspirations.
Receiving the items on behalf of the school, the Head Teacher of Ladi-Lak Nursery and Primary School, Mrs Ayoku Fatima Adenike, expressed appreciation to Dangote Cement for responding to the institution’s request for assistance.
Adenike said the donation had generated excitement among pupils and staff while addressing some of the school’s immediate educational needs.
She stressed the importance of partnerships between schools and responsible corporate organisations in tackling infrastructure challenges and creating better learning opportunities for children.
“We are sincerely grateful to Dangote Cement for this kind gesture. What once seemed like a dream has become a reality today.
“This support demonstrates the company’s commitment to education and the well-being of our children,” she said.
The head teacher said the new furniture and learning materials would improve classroom comfort and enhance the overall learning experience of the pupils.
She, however, appealed to the company to sustain its partnership with the school and assist in addressing other developmental needs.
Also speaking, the Head of Clinker Exports and Transport, Engr. Boluwarin Aladeniyi, described the intervention as an investment in the future of the pupils and a demonstration of the company’s confidence in their potential.
Aladeniyi urged the children to remain disciplined, respect their teachers and parents and pursue academic excellence.
He said the donated facilities were not merely physical assets but a demonstration of the confidence reposed in the pupils by individuals and organisations committed to their success.
