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The Oyo State government has launched a health insurance scheme in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to provide healthcare coverage to 10,000 primary school pupils across 18 local government areas in the state.
At the launch event, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal presented insurance scheme ID cards to students from 90 schools. “This scheme will ensure that our children have sound minds while they learn,” Lawal said. “It represents a collective effort in securing a brighter future for Oyo State pupils.”
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Lawal praised the partnership between the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) and the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB) for providing healthcare opportunities for public school children.
Ms. Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF Lagos Field Office, emphasized the importance of universal health coverage. “This initiative reinforces our collective commitment to ensuring that no child faces financial obstacles to accessing healthcare,” Lafoucriere said.
Commissioner for Health Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi assured OYSHIA and OYOSUBEB of her Ministry’s commitment to the scheme. Executive Chairman of OYOSUBEB Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran pledged his board’s support for the program’s successful implementation and sustainability.
Executive Secretary of OYSHIA Dr. Olusola Akande noted that the initiative aims to provide healthcare access to 10,000 public primary school pupils, with plans to enroll an additional 5,500 pupils soon. He acknowledged UNICEF’s support, which has enhanced awareness campaigns and doubled the communities covered under the Community-based Health Insurance scheme.
The event was attended by various stakeholders in the health and education sectors, including pupils, teachers, and parents. The launch of the health insurance scheme is expected to improve healthcare access and outcomes for primary school pupils in Oyo State.
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“This initiative is a significant step towards achieving universal health coverage in Oyo State,” said Lafoucriere. “We are committed to supporting the state government in ensuring that all children have access to quality healthcare.”
The Oyo State government has pledged to continue working with UNICEF and other partners to strengthen the state’s healthcare system and improve the overall well-being of its citizens.
As the health insurance scheme rolls out, officials say they are committed to monitoring its progress and making adjustments as needed to ensure that it is effective in improving healthcare outcomes for primary school pupils in Oyo State.