The Federated Union of Modakeke Students (FUMS) National Headquarters has officially wrapped up the 2025 Free Summer School Program, which ran for weeks and came to a colorful close on August 29, 2025. The Nigeria Education News team was on ground in Modakeke to investigate the impact of the initiative and gather firsthand reactions from students, parents, and tutors.
This year’s edition, proudly sponsored by Modakeke Progressive International (MPI), USA, recorded 1,122 registered students. According to FUMS officials, the program was designed not only to strengthen academic performance during the long holiday but also to instill moral discipline, self-confidence, and leadership values in the students. Our investigation revealed that beyond numbers, the program left a strong emotional and intellectual impact on participants.
At the closing ceremony, certificates were presented to all students and tutors, snacks and drinks were shared, and the atmosphere was filled with celebration. Tutors also received special gifts for their service. But The Nigeria Education News discovered that behind these formal activities lies a story of sacrifice, hope, and transformation that many students described as “life-changing.”
During our interaction with a 13-year-old student, Aishat, she explained that the program helped her prepare for the new academic session. “Before coming here, I struggled with mathematics, but the tutors made it simple. I now feel more confident about going back to school,” she said, her face lit with excitement. Another participant, Bolaji, a 15-year-old, noted that the program was more than just academics. “They taught us discipline, respect, and how to avoid bad gangs. I am very grateful,” he remarked.
Tutors too shared their experiences with our team. One of the volunteer teachers, Mr. Samuel, revealed that though the work was demanding, it was rewarding to see the progress of the students. “Many of these children came in with fear and doubts, but week after week, they became more open, eager, and intelligent. The transformation was remarkable,” he said.
Parents who spoke to The Nigeria Education News also expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. Mrs. Adeola, a parent whose two children participated, described the summer school as a blessing. “We cannot afford expensive summer lessons, but this free program gave my children access to quality teaching. I am particularly impressed by the moral lessons they received,” she explained. Her testimony reflected the financial relief the program provided to many families in Modakeke.
The role of Modakeke Progressive International (MPI), USA, was consistently emphasized during our investigation. FUMS President, Comrade Akinyemi Akintunde T. Moray Jnr, told our team that MPI’s sponsorship is the backbone of the summer school’s success. “Without MPI, this program would have been almost impossible. They stand as partners in the vision of raising a better Modakeke. We owe them our gratitude,” he said.
The Nigeria Education News also observed the crucial support from the management of Modakeke Islamic Grammar School, who provided the facilities. Media partners like Ogunsua FM, alongside philanthropists and community leaders, also contributed to the success of the program. These collaborations highlighted the collective spirit that sustains the summer school.
A major highlight of the closing ceremony was the presence of Hon. John Oyebanji, who gave an inspiring address to the students. Our correspondents noted that his words about hard work, perseverance, and discipline resonated with the audience. Many students were seen nodding and clapping as he urged them to embrace education as the surest path to success.
However, our investigation also uncovered challenges. Some tutors confided that the number of students was overwhelming, making it difficult to provide individual attention. Others highlighted the need for more learning materials, such as textbooks and writing aids. This points to the urgent need for broader community support in future editions.
As the 2025 program came to a close, students, tutors, parents, and community stakeholders left with renewed hope and gratitude. Our investigative findings reveal that the FUMS Free Summer School has grown beyond being a holiday lesson program it has become a platform for mentorship, discipline, and community development.
With 1,122 students impacted this year, the Free Summer School stands as one of the most influential grassroots educational interventions in Osun State. If sustained and expanded, it could serve as a model for similar initiatives across Nigeria. For Modakeke, it remains a story of how community-driven education can transform lives, one child at a time.
