Reading Culture, Best Weapon Against Poverty Mentality, Ignorance – Ekiti Youth Commissioner
….commends gov Oyebanji’s strides in human capital devt
The Ekiti State Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Gold Adesola Adedayo, has advocated aggressive reading culture among youths, saying this is desperately required for Nigeria to attain the much sought quality education status that can propel the economy.
The Commissioner said improved reading culture remains the most potent weapon against poverty mentality and pervasive ignorance pummeling the youth population.
Specifically, Adedayo bemoaned the nosediving reading culture in the country, thereby affecting the qualities of graduates at all levels, appealing that no efforts should be spared to reverse the ugly trend in the interest of the nation
Adedayo said these on Tuesday, during an event, “Read a Book” organized by the Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), held at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti Capital city.
Speaking at the event, Adedayo, said the programme, which prominently featured the First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi and the launching of her book titled: “Demand and Supply”, was conceptualised to promote reading culture and role modeling in the state.
The Commissioner stated further that the event was a loud testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to advance scholarship, in alignment with his visionary policy.
Adedayo stated that Oyebanji’s administration has made significant strides in providing the youths with quality education that can equip them to thrive in the complexities of the 21st-century economy.
“Today, we gather to honour the wisdom and insights of an extraordinary author and advocate, Her Excellency, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, through the launch of her transformative book, “Demand and Supply.
” In promoting a culture of reading in a society facing numerous challenges like ours, it is crucial to emphasize the concept of role modeling. This is vital for the growth of education, as our youth, many of whom are transitioning from adolescence, need practical motivation to develop the intuition that guides critical thinking.
” It is on this premise that we invited our Mother-General, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, whose legacy in education and the academic world extends far beyond the borders of Ekiti State and Nigeria. Her presence here today is intended not only to inspire our youth but also to allow them to tap into her vast reservoir of knowledge”.
Adedayo commended a renowned academic and the First Lady of Ekiti State, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her deep commitment to empowering the youths, particularly enhancing their mental capacity and providing support to the aged and vulnerable in our society.
Adedayo stated that Dr Oyebanji as the Chairperson of the State Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Management Committee and the State Action Committee on AIDS (SACA), had exhibited steadfast advocate for women and children in Ekiti State.
“Her initiatives, such as WAOH, which offers financial, material, and vocational empowerment to widows and orphans, and the Ekiti Adire Hub, a training facility for youth and unemployed graduates in the art of Adire making, further underscore her dedication to youth development.
“Virginia Woolf once said, “Books are the mirrors of the soul.” This timeless quote reminds us of the profound impact literature can have on our lives. Today, we are not merely here to read a book; we are here to reflect on its message, its wisdom, and its call to action”.
Reviewing the book authored by Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Adedayo said it challenged the youths to rethink the approach to empowerment and development, while also underscoring the critical importance of education, health, and economic opportunities in shaping a more equitable society.
“One of the most compelling sections of the book highlights the significance of inclusive policies: “True development is inclusive; it leaves no one behind and considers the needs of every individual, regardless of gender or background.”
Adedayo stated that in the book, Erelu Fayemi emphasized that Inclusive development is not an option; it is a necessity, saying we cannot build a prosperous society if half of our population is left behind.
“This statement serves as a powerful call to action for all of us here. As leaders, policymakers, and advocates, we must ensure that our efforts are inclusive, addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls. By doing so, we create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
“Today’s event is not just about reading a book; it is about igniting conversations, sparking ideas, and inspiring action. It is about recognizing the power of our collective voices and using that power to create a brighter future for our youths”.
In his submission, the Chairman of ANA, Ekiti chapter, Dr. Gbenga Daramola, said reading culture should be promoted in any society desirous of change, especially among its productive population.
Dr Daramola scholarship and enhanced mental alertness, remained the most effective ways to develop the human capital of any country, saying the event will help reshape the minds of the youths and enrich their mental faculties.
In their contributions, the Speaker ,Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, described the programme as a right avenue to further reignite, tread the path of knowledge and empathy as well as promote literacy among the rank and files of Ekiti citizens.
The trio of Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi and for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, saluted the organisers for their passion for education, saying this will help to bolster the zeal for scholarship among the youths.
The Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District at the Senate, Cyril Fasuyi, was present at the occasion, among other high profile figures.