A Bold Step in Educational Empowerment
The Dolly Children Foundation (DCF) has concluded its four-week Summer 9.0 program, a free holiday initiative designed to inspire learning and creativity in children. What began as a community-driven effort has now expanded to reach children in Ogun, Lagos, Oyo, and Abuja, proving that quality education can cross borders and break barriers.
The program focused on building essential skills in literacy, numeracy, art, and technology. At its heart was the digital creativity track, where children moved from learning the basics of computer use to building websites powered by AI and designing their own storybooks using Canva. This was not just a class, it was a window into a future where children from underserved communities can thrive in a digital-first world.
The Power of Partnerships
DCF’s impact this year was made possible through the support of the Gamaliel and Susan Onosode Foundation (GAMSU). The foundation funded teachers’ salaries and donated school materials, ensuring that the program remained free for every participant. More importantly, their backing motivated teachers who gave their time and expertise to shape the lives of young learners.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Adedolapo Osuntuyi, Founder and Convener of DCF, expressed deep gratitude. She noted, “Summer 9.0 has once again shown us that when children are given the right platform, they rise. We are grateful to GAMSU for helping us expand our reach across four states. Our dream is to ensure many more children experience this opportunity in years to come.”
Building for the Future
In her remarks, Mrs. Toyin Olanrewaju, Executive Director of GAMSU Foundation, emphasized the connection between education and national growth. “Access to quality education and equal opportunities is key to development. Working with DCF reflects our commitment to empower the next generation. By ensuring that no child is left behind, we are laying the foundation for an inclusive and brighter future.”
Adding to this, Ajoke Adeola, Founder of Reel Foundation, praised the progress made in the digital sessions. “Each edition of this partnership with DCF reaffirms our focus on education and empowerment. Watching children transition from little digital exposure to creating websites and telling their own stories online is inspiring. The success of Summer 9.0 proves that children can exceed expectations when given the right resources.”
A Movement Growing Stronger
With the strategic backing of GAMSU and the continued support of Reel Foundation, DCF has strengthened its mission to bridge educational and digital gaps for underserved children. Preparations for Summer 10.0 are already in motion, with plans to expand to more states across Nigeria.
What started as a small initiative has become a national movement that empowers children to learn, dream, and innovate. For DCF, the vision remains clear: to create opportunities that change the trajectory of young lives, one summer at a time.
