Let It Shine Academy (LISA), a tuition-free school for orphans and underprivileged children in Lagos, has upgraded to a full boarding facility as part of efforts to deepen its impact.
Located in Sangotedo, Lagos State, the academy on Saturday commissioned a new building to accommodate its transition from a day school to a boarding institution.
Founded by social entrepreneur Damilola Feyide, LISA provides free secondary education to over 200 children from low-income backgrounds. The academy focuses on inclusive learning and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the commissioning, Mrs Feyide said the expansion was in response to growing demand and the need to provide a more stable environment for students from difficult or unstable homes.
“Every child deserves a quality education. You cannot have a great nation without educating young people because they are the future,” she said. “Here is a school offering free education to children from poor communities. We are giving them education without them paying a kobo because we believe in the future of our young people.”
She added that the new building would allow the school to admit more students and provide a safe space for them to thrive academically and socially.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, who serves as the academy’s Grand Patron.
Mr Gbajabiamila commended the founder for her vision and commitment to community development.
“This is a great achievement by Damilola. She is impacting lives positively, and I am happy to be part of this,” he said. “Every child deserves a quality education. No child should be left out.”
He also pledged continued support for the academy and called on well-meaning Nigerians to back similar initiatives in their communities.
Mrs Feyide expressed appreciation to individuals, banks, and corporate organisations that have supported the school since its inception, noting that LISA’s success has been driven by collective goodwill.
With the new boarding facilities, Let It Shine Academy is set to scale its operations and provide not only academic instruction but also a safe and nurturing home for some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable children.
