Seventeen students from three secondary schools in Ekiti State have been awarded ₦100,000 each in recognition of their outstanding academic performance, amounting to a total scholarship sum of ₦1.7 million. The scholarships were provided by philanthropist, Dr. Oluwadare Owolabi, during the 2025 edition of his annual scholarship award ceremony held in Odo Oro Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area.
The beneficiaries were selected from Igogo Commercial High School, Igogo-Ekiti (Moba LGA); Ayede Grammar School, Ayede-Ekiti (Oye LGA); and Odo Oro High School, Odo Oro Ekiti (Ikole LGA). They were honoured for excellence in key subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science, Economics, and Mathematics.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Owolabi described the initiative as a way of giving back to society, while also supporting the efforts of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, in improving education in the state.
“The scholarship award is a way to reward academic brilliance and assist our governor, who has been doing commendable work in education and development,” Owolabi stated.
He emphasized the importance of private sector and individual contributions to education funding, noting that government alone cannot bear the full responsibility due to competing demands in various sectors. He urged the students to remain focused and promised continued support for their academic pursuits.
In his remarks, the Onise of Odo Oro Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Jemilehin, praised Dr. Owolabi for his generous gesture, calling it a valuable investment in the future of young people. He encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity and uphold the trust placed in them.
Also speaking, Mr. Johnson Oladimeji, Principal of Odo Oro High School, who represented all the beneficiary schools, lauded the initiative as an exemplary act of community-driven educational support.
“Recognizing the best students in each subject is a commendable step and a noble investment in the future of our children,” Oladimeji said. He assured Dr. Owolabi of continued partnership in creating a more conducive learning environment and sustaining academic excellence.
“We appreciate your ideas, mentorship, and partnership as we strive together to build a brighter future,” he added.
ADEOLA KUNLE
