OAU Alumnus Donates N11m to 110 Indigent Students

In a remarkable display of philanthropy and commitment to educational empowerment, an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Mr. Omotayo Adegboyega, has donated Eleven Million Naira (₦11m) to support 110 indigent students of the institution. Each beneficiary received One Hundred Thousand Naira (₦100,000) to alleviate financial burdens and aid their academic pursuits.

The cheque presentation ceremony, held at the university, was graced by top officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, who warmly welcomed Mr. Adegboyega, Founder and Chairman of the Omotayo Adegboyega Foundation, and Professor Saheed Adekilekun, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board and a distinguished alumnus of OAU’s Faculty of Science.

Expressing profound gratitude on behalf of the university management, Professor Bamire lauded Mr. Adegboyega and the Foundation for their unwavering dedication to student welfare. “This generous donation exemplifies the true spirit of giving back. It is heartening to see our alumni investing in the future of young scholars, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their dreams. We urge other well-meaning alumni to emulate this act of kindness and contribute to the advancement of education at OAU,” he stated.

Mr. Omotayo Adegboyega, while speaking at the event, emphasized the significance of supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. “As an alumnus, I understand the struggles many students face in pursuit of their dreams. This initiative is driven by my belief that no student should have their aspirations curtailed due to financial difficulties. We hope this support will serve as a stepping stone for these students to excel academically and ultimately give back to society in their own way,” he remarked.

Professor Saheed Adekilekun, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board, highlighted the crucial role of alumni in fostering institutional growth and student development. “Education is the greatest equalizer, and we must all take collective responsibility for uplifting those in need. This is not just a donation; it is an investment in the future of these students and the greatness of our alma mater,” he said.

The Dean of the Division of Students’ Affairs, Professor Deolu Odedire, commended the Foundation’s commitment to student welfare and acknowledged the positive impact of such philanthropic efforts on academic motivation and performance. “This support will not only provide financial relief but will also inspire students to strive for excellence, knowing that their hard work and dedication are recognized and rewarded by those who walked these halls before them,” he said.

The event featured a symbolic cheque presentation and was attended by key university officials, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Yomi Daramola; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Development), Professor Akanni Akinyemi; University Librarian, Dr. Kemi Fadehan; Bursar, Mrs. Toyin Abogan; and Vice-Dean, Dr. L. O. Olasunkanmi. The Chairman of the Home Branch of the Great Ife Alumni Association, Dr. Atilade, was also present at the occasion.

The donation by Mr. Adegboyega and his Foundation underscores the critical role of alumni in sustaining educational institutions and empowering the next generation of leaders. As OAU continues to produce outstanding graduates, initiatives like this serve as a beacon of hope for students facing financial hardships, reinforcing the university’s legacy of excellence and community support.