Imo State government has begun the payment of stipends to school children as well as  distribution of school materials to public schools in the state.

While inaugurating the programme at Owerri City School, Governor Rochas Okorocha said the exercise was aimed at encouraging school children in their studies and further creating conducive environment for learning.

The governor, who was represented by his wife, Nneoma Okorocha, said secondary schools pupils would receive N500, while their counterparts in primary schools would receive N300 every term.

“I am here to flag-off the payment of your stipend. Of course, you know that the governor loves you so much, with much interest in your education and future. His watchword to students is hard work,” the governor’s wife told the pupils.

She further described education as a vital instrument to a child’s development, adding that the present administration would remain committed to transforming the education sector.