Tucked away in the heart of Ikoyi, Lagos State, Nigeria, lies Hope Primary School, a public institution whose name promises a bright future. Yet, when we first visited, we met with a stark reality contradicting the school's inspiring name.

The poor infrastructure slowly dimmed the dreams of the children who passed through its gates. The Special Foundation’s ambassadors and partner, Templegate Consulting, joined forces to breathe new life into this once-neglected school.

The Challenge: Restoring Dignity to Learning

The infrastructural issues were glaring on The Special Foundation Team’s first visit in 2023. The Oasis library, once the centrepiece of learning, was appalling, with empty shelves and rodent infestation. Basic facilities like the restroom had become unusable, causing a safety risk for students. 

"This is what the Special Foundation is about,” Seyi Akinwale, Founder of The Special Foundation, emphasized in a video documenting the efforts. “We are trying to see how we can intervene in improving the infrastructural facilities that exist.” It was a call to action to make a lasting change in the lives of the students at Hope Primary School. 

The Oasis Library: A Sanctuary of Knowledge

One of the most impressive renovation efforts was the Oasis Library. The Special Foundation and Templegate Consulting set out to transform the library into a true oasis of learning. The reconstruction was time-consuming and extensive since the damage was just as much, but it was worth it, as the final results showed. 

Caved ceiling boards were replaced with modern ones, new bookshelves and ceiling fans were added, and the space was flooded with natural light thanks to newly installed windows. In addition, a collection of over 250+ books was donated to the library through the foundation’s partners to spark curiosity and excitement in the students. 

Classrooms and Basic Facilities: Fostering Learning and Safety 

The renovation of a block of classrooms was expectedly transformative in more ways than one. Since the classroom is the first place the students go to learn, it was necessary to ensure it was conducive enough to foster learning and growth. New chairs and desks were added, and a local artist was commissioned to make fun murals on the walls of each classroom. 

One part of the school that seemed overlooked but was essential was the restroom. “Before our toilet was broken, we couldn’t flush; we always stayed outside,” 9-year-old Tayo in Basic 6 recalled in a video-documented interview. “But now, our toilet is fixed,” he adds. The Special Foundation installed new water closet units, tiles, and partitions to restore a sense of privacy and cleanliness.

The Unending Push to Do More and Inspire Transformation

By investing in improving the educational infrastructure of a public school like Hope Primary School, Ikoyi, The Special Foundation and its partners hope to send a clear message: “True change starts with us”. In the communal act of improving the learning environment for the students of Hope Primary School, hope has been reignited in each child’s life.

None of these would be possible without the dedicated support of The Special Foundation’s partners and ambassadors. Providing educational support through initiatives like our School Build Projects is vital to the foundation’s mission. We invite you to get involved today or donate to our cause. 

Remember: 

Every Child Deserves an Education, and Every Child Has a Right to Dream.