A philanthropist, Dr. Oluwadare Owolabi, has offered scholarships to students across some secondary schools in Ekiti State.
The scholarships of N100,000 each were awarded to outstanding students in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science, Economics, and Mathematics across three schools.
No fewer than 17 students from Igogo Commercial High School, Igogo-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area (LGA); Ayede Grammar School, Ayede-Ekiti, in Oye LGA; and Odo Oro High School, Odo Oro Ekiti, in Ikole LGA benefited from the annual scholarship award.
Owolabi, while addressing the students and teachers at the ceremony on Thursday, noted that the gesture was his own way of assisting students, especially the indigent, in pursuing their educational careers without hindrance.
He explained that the gesture would go a long way in encouraging the students to add value to the educational development in the state.
Owolabi, who commended the state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his deliberate efforts and investment in improving the standard of education in the state, noted that the scholarship scheme would complement the government’s investment in the sector.
He posited that funding of education should not be left to the government alone, saying that individuals and groups must play their parts in a bid to sustain the educational status of Ekiti State.
The donor urged the beneficiaries and other students to be dedicated to their educational pursuits and avoid distractions that could derail them from being successful and attaining their potential.
He said, “I was in their situation some years ago, to be precise 1991, as a secondary school student. But we appreciate the faithfulness of God in our lives, hence my decision to give back to the society, especially to the outstanding students.
“We all know that the government alone cannot fund education, because they have too many areas and sectors to attend to. So, we decided to assist and complement the efforts of our governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who has been doing well for us in Ekiti State.
“I have promised the students that this scholarship is going to be yearly and also be extended by the grace of God. I am more passionate about having our education system improved because that is our signature as a state, and we must not deviate from what we are known for.
“I was in their shoes over three decades ago, but with perseverance, hard work, and commitment, I was able to become who I am today. So, they too can be great and successful with the support we are giving them.”
He promised to follow up with the beneficiaries on their journey in a bid to offer more support in the future.
Speaking, the Onise of Odo Oro Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Jemilehin Aladesodedero I, commended the philanthropic gesture of the donor, noting that the investment would in no small measure help the students attain their potential in the future.
He urged the beneficiaries and all students across the three schools to remain focused on their educational careers and produce excellent results to encourage the donor.
Responding on behalf of the principals of the beneficiary schools, the principal of Odo Oro High School, Johnson Oladimeji, lauded the donor’s gesture in rewarding the outstanding students in the school.
“Your decision to reward the best students in each subject is not only a commendable act of giving back but also a noble investment in the future of our children,” he said.
He assured the donor that the school would remain committed to providing a conducive learning environment for students to thrive, adding, “We welcome your ideas, mentorship, and partnership as we build a brighter future together.”
