…Disburses N335 Million in Bursary, Includes Students with Special Needs

By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has stated that his administration recognises education as the cornerstone of development, emphasising that it is the key to unlocking the potential of young people.

Speaking during the official flag-off ceremony for the award of bursary, scholarship, and financial assistance to students of Ondo State origin in tertiary institutions across the country on Monday, at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office in Akure, Aiyedatiwa highlighted the pivotal role that education plays in the growth and future of the state.

The Governor increased the annual bursary of the students from N10,000 to 20,000 while students with disabilities are to get N75,000 each and scholarhip beneficiaries to get 100,000 each.

He remarked, “As a government, we recognise that education is the cornerstone of development. It is the key that unlocks the potential of our young people, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to drive progress and prosperity.”

The Governor went on to explain that his administration is deeply committed to supporting students who face financial challenges in their pursuit of higher education.

“Many of our students face significant financial challenges in pursuing their academic dreams. That is why we have these bursary and scholarship awards, as well as financial assistance, to provide support, alleviate financial burdens, and enable our students to focus on their studies,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa stressed that these awards are not just financial support but a demonstration of the government’s investment in the future of the state. “These awards are a testament to our commitment to investing in the future of our state and our country. We must ensure that our students have access to quality education and the necessary support to excel in their academic pursuits,” he added.

The Governor also outlined several key initiatives undertaken by his administration to improve the quality of education in the state. These include regular payments of WASSCE registration fees for students in public secondary schools, the massive reconstruction and renovation of public schools, recruitment and training of teachers, digitalisation of the education sector, and consistent financial support to tertiary institutions.

“This administration has made several interventions through various policies and programmes to ensure that the quality of education in our state conforms to global standards,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

Addressing the student beneficiaries, the Governor encouraged them to see the awards as a vote of confidence in their abilities. “We believe in you, and we are confident that you will make the most of this opportunity. You must utilise this support to excel, innovate, and make a positive impact in your academics, the future of our state, and Nigeria at large,” he advised.

Aiyedatiwa also took the opportunity to commend the parents and guardians of the beneficiaries, recognising their crucial role in the academic success of their children. He urged them to continue providing guidance and encouragement to ensure their children’s success.

The Governor expressed profound gratitude to all stakeholders in the education sector, including the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, the Scholarship Board, academic institutions, and other development partners, for their contributions to the growth of education in Ondo State.

“Together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves, our state, and our children through continuous investment in the education and development of young people,” he concluded.

The Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Ademola Kolawole, emphasised that no nation can achieve development without education. He noted that investing in education will bring significant benefits to both the Ondo State government and the nation at large. Kolawole also highlighted that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to student welfare is unparalleled.

Commissioner for Education, Olaolu Akindolire, remarked that it is the government’s responsibility to support students, as their achievements both within and outside the country have been a source of pride for Ondo State. He expressed his gratitude to the Governor for his dedication and unwavering commitment to the welfare of students, stating that education is crucial for building a brighter future for the state.

In addition, the President of the National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS), Oyelade Ahmed, thanked the Governor for prioritising education in Ondo State. He noted that this initiative would alleviate the financial burdens on countless families and affirmed that the association has full confidence in the Governor’s leadership.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; APC State Chairman, Ade Adetimehin; and the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Ondo State, Hon. Justice Eunice.