As reported by the Nigerian Tribune, the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) has distributed school bags and writing materials to underprivileged students in Kwara State.

Around 100 students from 10 primary and secondary schools each received a bag, 10 exercise books, and other writing materials valued at over ?35,000.

The distribution took place during the foundation's second edition of its back-to-school initiative.

Speaking at the event, the state coordinator of ZSF, Mr Basheer Olalekan Ariyo, stated that the programme aimed to support the government in providing quality education to those in need.

“We embarked on the programme after we realised that some indigent students were going to school without bags while others used sacks.

“This is not just financial support but also a vote of confidence in their potentials and abilities and we want to see them excel in their studies.

“As you return to school, I charge you to face your academic pursuits squarely. Let this support motivate you to work harder, dream bigger and strive for excellence.

“Remember that education is the key to unlocking your future. We are proud to be a part of your journey,” Ariyo said.

He expressed gratitude to donors and supporters for their contributions, saying that the payment of their zakat and sadaqah had made a significant impact in the lives of the beneficiaries.

The guest speaker, Ustadh Harun Ahmad Akano, encouraged Muslims to be diligent and disciplined in fulfilling their zakat obligations.

He advised the beneficiaries to make the most of the items to improve their education.

A beneficiary, Damilare Mafolasere, thanked the ZSF for the gesture which he said would go a long way in aiding their education.

“Before now, my bag was badly torn and it had been a struggle getting another one because my parents are poor and the economic situation has worsened things for us,” Damilare said.

Another beneficiary, Safrahu Mofoluwaso, expressed appreciation for the genuineness of the zakat body's programme and promised to utilise the materials given to her.

“We have had instances where people, in the name of foundations, made promises and videoed us just for publicity; nothing got to us. But this is real despite the present hardships,” she said.

A parent, Habitat Jimoh, said the gesture was “a huge relief and will go a long way to relieve us of a burden.”