In a bid to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to pursue education and fulfill their potential, the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has renewed the scholarships of 50 orphans, covering their education from primary school to university level.
Speaking during the ceremony at her office in Ado-Ekiti, Dr. Oyebanji emphasized that the gesture goes beyond financial assistance. Alongside the scholarship renewals, she distributed school materials and ₦25,000 each to the beneficiaries, describing the initiative as an investment in the children’s future to help them become role models for others.
She encouraged the beneficiaries to remain focused, disciplined, and determined, noting that though some of them may have lost parental care, they must never lose hope.
“To you, I say: you are not alone. Ekiti State stands with you, and we will continue to walk beside you as you pursue your dreams. Your courage inspires us all”. She assured.
The convener of the Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project, Dr. Oyebanji, expressed gratitude to stakeholders whose contributions sustain the programme, while also commending the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration for its unwavering commitment to education and human capital development.
A major partner of the project, Premium Trust Bank, represented by Mrs. Moji Daramola on behalf of the Managing Director, Pastor Emmanuel Emefienim, noted that the initiative stemmed from the bank’s “Give Back” agenda. He urged guardians to ensure the support provided is used for its intended purpose.
Earlier, the Coordinator of the WAOH Project, Dr. Kemi Dairo, remarked that the scholarships represent more than financial aid, describing them as seeds of hope, courage, and possibility for children who have experienced pain and loss.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of SUBEB, Professor Femi Akinwumi; the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Bimpe Aderiye; and the Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, described the programme as a life-changing legacy and a pathway to ensure that children in Ekiti are well-educated. They noted that the government has continued to make schools attractive by providing a conducive learning environment.
Guardians and beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation to the state government, WAOH initiative of the first lady and stakeholders for the impactful gesture.
