18 OAU Students Receive Scholarships from US-Based Osun Development Forum

Eighteen students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, have received scholarships from the Osun Development Forum, a Dallas, Texas-based non-profit organisation, making the university the institution with the highest number of beneficiaries in this year's award.

A total of 56 students of Osun State origin benefited from the annual scholarship and endowment programme, which recognises students who maintain a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 4.0.

The scholarship and endowment ceremony was held at OAU, where the organisation celebrated outstanding academic performance. Since 2016, the Osun Development Forum has funded more than 600 scholarships and academic endowments across Osun State.

Representing the university management, the Dean of Student Affairs, Odedire, accompanied by the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and T. O. Jimoh, commended the consistency of the initiative.

He said the scholarship programme rewards only academic excellence.

"We don't go looking for students whose GP is hanging around motion ground and road one. The only basis for this continuous support is your academic excellence. That is the only thing you can give the president in return for him to continue this work. We pray this happens every year."

The dean urged the beneficiaries to remain focused, describing them as future ambassadors of the programme. He also encouraged them to give back to society when they become successful, noting that previous beneficiaries from the university had graduated with honours.

Six students received the scholarship for the third consecutive year, demonstrating sustained academic excellence.

Among the outstanding beneficiaries were:

• Ogunsakin Tobiloba – Faculty of Law (5.0 CGPA).
• Husani Aishat – Faculty of Social Sciences (5.0 CGPA).
• Oluwole Heritage – Faculty of Arts (5.0 CGPA).
• Adebayo Ruth – Faculty of Education (5.0 CGPA).
• Adewuyi Precious – Faculty of Pharmacy.
• Odediran Samuel – Faculty of Technology.
• Fatoye Gbolahan – Faculty of Dentistry.

Speaking at the event, the President of the Osun Development Forum, Kazeem Adetunji, reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to using education as a tool for societal development.

"Today, we are celebrating 56 exceptional students across Osun State, and OAU has the largest number of beneficiaries. However, to continue enjoying this support, beneficiaries must maintain a GPA above 4.0."

The university also called on alumni, well-wishers and members of the public to support the institution through scholarships, endowments and donations to expand educational opportunities for more students.