The President of the National Association of Seadogs, Atlantic Shores Deck, Eket, Akwa Ibom, Mr. Patrick Ifon, has expressed deep concern over the growing number of out-of-school children in the state.
Speaking at an event to mark the 2025 International Literacy Day (ILD) in Eket on Saturday, Ifon urged Governor Umo Eno to intensify efforts to address the problem.
Represented by the Spokesperson, Mr. George McAnthony, the president said it was worrisome that many children were out of school despite the free and compulsory universal basic education policy.
He urged the state government to make it mandatory for every school-aged child in Akwa Ibom to have access to basic education and literacy.
It would be recalled that ILD is celebrated annually on Sept. 8, and the theme of the 2025 edition is: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.”
Ifon further stated that the association had donated books, educational materials and essential medications to children in the state to commemorate the day.
“Illiteracy is one of the greatest barriers to empowerment and community development. The is worsened by the economic hardship in the country,” he said.
He said that UNICEF recently reported that that no fewer than 10.2 million school-aged children were out of school.
“UNESCO estimates that the figure is over 18.3 million when adolescents are included. Available statistics indicate that more children live on the streets and in overcrowded homes.
“This development leaves many children in vulnerable states, meaning that they can be exploited and abused,” he said.
According to him, the challenges manifest in declining school completion rates, limited digital literacy, and reduced employment opportunities.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to take responsibility by ensuring their children are enrolled and retained in school, stressing that education remains the surest path to a brighter future.