Lagos schools benefit as firms roll out massive book distribution

Two companies, Academy Press Plc and Ekenua & Co. Limited, have donated 1,500 copies of George Orwell’s famous novel, Animal Farm, to students in three senior secondary schools in Ilupeju, Lagos.

The donation is part of a new education project called the Million Classics Programme, which aims to encourage reading, critical thinking and learning among young people.

The programme is being carried out in partnership with Lagos State Education District VI. Organisers said more schools in the district will benefit from the project in the coming weeks.

As part of the initiative, students will read selected classic books, take part in classroom discussions and write essays. Their essays will be assessed by an independent panel.

Students who perform exceptionally well will receive cash rewards and three year scholarships, although organisers have not yet announced the value of the prizes or when they will be awarded.

The programme was launched in collaboration with the Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Education District VI, Mrs Mojisola Christiana Yusuff, through the district’s Reading Culture Initiative.

School coordinators will also organise an essay competition during the long vacation to help students better understand the lessons and themes in Animal Farm.

Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director of Academy Press, Oluwakemi Ogunnubi, said the programme supports the company’s commitment to education and will give students greater access to quality literature.

The Managing Director of Ekenua & Co. Limited, Osamede Okhomina, said the initiative is designed to encourage students to read beyond examination purposes and develop critical thinking, leadership and analytical skills.

According to the organisers, the Million Classics Programme is expected to expand to other states across Nigeria through a planned sponsorship model.

Ekenua & Co. also noted that its education projects include the National AI Innovation Programme, which was developed in partnership with the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA).

The organisers expressed hope that the programme will inspire more students to develop a strong reading culture and improve their academic performance.