The LOIB Empowerment Initiative Volunteers recently demonstrated their commitment to corporate social responsibility by donating N350,000 in scholarships to assist 50 underprivileged students across two public secondary schools in Ilorin, Kwara State. This philanthropic gesture is aligned with the organization’s vision of ensuring that every child has access to education, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The beneficiaries of this program were selected from Government Day Secondary School, Gaa-Akanbi, and Community Junior Secondary School, Tanke Okeodo. This initiative not only relieves financial burdens for these students but also serves as a stepping stone toward a brighter future in education.
At the Government Day Secondary School, a total of N225,000 was allocated for tuition, benefiting 25 Senior Secondary 2 (SS2) students. The selection of recipients was carefully executed, recognizing academic excellence as well as need. The first fifteen students awarded the scholarship consisted of the top performers in Arts, Sciences, and Commercial subjects, while the remaining ten recipients were selected based on financial needs. Such a thoughtful approach ensures that both merit and economic circumstances were taken into account, aiming to foster talent while also uplifting impoverished students.
Meanwhile, the Community Junior Secondary School received N125,000 to cover the tuition fees for 25 Junior Secondary 2 (JSS2) students. Similar to the first school, the selection was divided into categories of academic merit and need, equipping the scholarship recipients with the necessary financial resources to enhance their learning experience. This structured distribution affirms the initiative’s commitment to promoting educational excellence while providing vital support to those who might otherwise be unable to continue their studies.
During a visit to the Government Day Secondary School, the initiative featured an inspiring career talk from LOIB volunteer Mrs. Blessing Olanrewaju. At this assembly, she emphasized the importance of cultivating self-esteem, stating that it plays a significant role in academic performance and future success. Drawing from personal anecdotal evidence, Olanrewaju recounted how a former student, through diligent choices and commitment to education, rose to attain a prestigious position in society. Such motivational encounters not only energize the students but also instill hope and aspiration, reinforcing the notion that their current efforts can lead to future accomplishments.
The atmosphere at Community Junior Secondary School during the announcement of scholarship recipients was filled with excitement as students and staff cheered for the chosen beneficiaries. The administrative officer of the school, Mrs. Quadri, expressed gratitude on behalf of the students and faculty, acknowledging the organization’s impactful contribution to their community. The comments from both the principal and vice principal further underscored the appreciation for the LOIB Empowerment Initiative’s dedication to humanitarian service, emphasizing the transformative role such support can have on the lives of students in need.
Mrs. Love Ajagbe-Ayankola, the visionary behind the LOIB Empowerment Initiative, shared her deep satisfaction regarding the success of this outreach, which marks a historic beginning following the organization’s official registration and incorporation. She expressed heartfelt thanks to the committed volunteers and sponsors, reflecting a culture of gratitude and community involvement. Looking toward the future, Ajagbe-Ayankola conveyed optimism regarding the possibility of expanding this initiative to encompass even more noble causes with the right resources and backing, further emphasizing the transformative power of education and community support in shaping the lives of the youth.
