PalmPay, LASUBEB move to keep more Lagos children in school

PalmPay has partnered with Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board to reward outstanding students in selected public schools across Lagos, as part of efforts to encourage academic excellence and reduce the number of children leaving school.

The partnership will see high-performing pupils receive scholarships, shopping vouchers and branded school kits to support their education and reduce financial pressure on their families.

The initiative comes at a time Nigeria continues to battle a large out-of-school children crisis. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), about 18.3 million school-age children in the country are currently out of the classroom.

PalmPay said the collaboration is aimed at showing students that hard work and consistency in school can create opportunities for a better future.

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Speaking on the partnership, Chika Nwosu managing director of PalmPay, said recognising students goes beyond celebrating academic success.

“Recognizing and rewarding high-performing students goes beyond celebrating excellence. It reinforces the value of education, strengthens motivation, and supports families in keeping their children in school. Through our partnership with LASUBEB, we are contributing to an ecosystem where young people are encouraged to stay engaged and pursue their ambitions,” Nwosu said.

He added that the company hopes the partnership will help create an environment where young people remain focused on their studies and continue pursuing their ambitions.

Under the programme, PalmPay will work directly with LASUBEB and teachers in selected public schools to identify students who have shown strong academic performance.

The company said the support is designed to reach students where it can make the biggest impact, especially in public schools where many families face economic challenges.

PalmPay noted that when students see their efforts rewarded, it can increase their commitment to learning while also encouraging parents to keep their children in school.

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The fintech company said the initiative forms part of its wider commitment to economic and social inclusion in Nigeria.

Beyond expanding financial services access, PalmPay said it is investing in programmes that reduce barriers for families and help young Nigerians build better futures.

The company added that integrating education support into its corporate social responsibility agenda will contribute to community development and help prepare the future workforce needed for Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.