Osun lawmaker awards scholarships to 1,240 students

The lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State in the House of Representatives, Wole Oke, has awarded scholarships to no fewer than 1,240 students across nine technical schools in the state.

Oke, in a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, said the scholarship scheme was launched in 2021 to promote technical education among youths.

At the Government Technical College, Osogbo, a total of 469 students have benefited from the scholarship, while 213 are currently enjoying the support at the technical college in Ile-Ife.

Others include 150 students in Ijebu-Ijesa, 39 in Ara, 109 in Inisa, nine in Otan Ayegbaju, 88 in Gbongan, and 12 in Osu.

The scholarship covers school fees, enrolment charges, lesson fees, and other related expenses, costing about N15m per term and N40m per academic session.

Commenting on the initiative, Oke described it as a strategic effort to tackle unemployment, noting that technical skills would enhance self-reliance and employment opportunities among youths.

He added that the scholarship reflects his longstanding advocacy for increased investment in vocational education and aligns with the Federal Government’s recent decision to introduce free tuition in all Federal Technical Colleges nationwide.

The lawmaker, who serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, reiterated his commitment to supporting programmes that promote education, skills acquisition, and youth development within his constituency and across Osun State.

Oke said, “Technical education remains one of the most practical pathways to tackling unemployment in our society. By equipping our young people with relevant skills, we are not only preparing them for jobs but also empowering them to become job creators. This scholarship is a deliberate investment in the future of our youths and the economic growth of Osun State.”

Speaking in a recorded video made available to journalists, some beneficiaries, including Christopher Olaniyan, Abiodu Korede (Osogbo), and Abosede Durojaye (Ife), commended Oke for the initiative.

“I want to appreciate Hon. Wole Oke, on behalf of my fellow students, for this support. God will bless you abundantly. We promise not to disappoint you,” one of the beneficiaries said.