My dad served in the Education sector in Nigeria for most of his career (about 45 years in total). He understood and was passionate about the predicament of children from the lower socio economic class who did not have access to private school education. Upon retirement, he set up a primary (elementary) school in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria to serve the children in his community.

The school was hardly for profit but had to close its doors after just two years as the parents of the pupils could not keep up with the payment of the school fees (it was 5000 Naira a term which is approx. $13).

I have visited that community multiple times since then and seen the need and poverty that exists there. The parents desperately want an education for their children as a way out of poverty, but cannot afford the school fees required to enroll.

We agree alongside E.D. Hirsh that "Giving everybody more knowledge makes everybody more competent and creates a more just society. Since knowledge is the great equalizer, schools have a huge opportunity and responsibility to provide more equal life chances for all students, no matter where they come from". With this in mind, the vision of Agape Elementary school is to provide free education for less privileged children to afford them otherwise unreachable opportunities and enable them fulfill their potential, and secure their future, as we raise them to be virtuous leaders in the society. We urge you to join us in providing hope for these children by supporting this initiative to reopen my dad's school while providing a free education for the students who enroll. Our goal is to provide very sound primary education and free meals to the students to enable them focus on their education, without worrying about where their next meal will come from.

We have almost completed renovations of the school building but need help raising funds to cover initial staffing costs (teachers, security, cooks), equipment and supplies (books, recreational equipment, borehole for drinking water, class furniture, computers, etc.). Long term sustenance plan includes partnering with my home church and some individual partners (discussions are ongoing) in addition to my personal ongoing financial commitment.

We'll be opening the doors of the new school in September 2019 so look forward to your assistance.

Together we can be the light for the next generation!

Thanks in advance for your support.

Bisayo & the Agape School Leadership Team