The Ondo State Government has commenced the disbursement of over ₦350 million in bursaries and scholarships to more than 11,000 indigent students studying across tertiary institutions in Nigeria — a bold step toward reducing financial stress and promoting inclusive education in the Sunshine State.
Flagging off the scheme in Akure on Tuesday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the initiative as a cornerstone in the state’s mission to revitalise education and empower young people to pursue their dreams.
Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to educational development and human capital growth, noting that 2025 marks a turning point in Ondo’s education journey.
“The year 2025 has been a remarkable chapter in our educational journey, as our interventions have continued to transform lives, institutions and communities across Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa said.
“Today’s bursary, scholarship and financial assistance programme being given to 11,358 students is a demonstration of our government’s deep concern for the welfare of our students.”
He emphasized that no child from Ondo State should be deprived of education due to financial hardship.
“We recognise the challenges that many of our students face and through this initiative, we are determined to ensure that no child of Ondo State is denied education due to financial hardship,” he added.
Aiyedatiwa urged beneficiaries to uphold discipline, integrity, and hard work while assuring them of continued government support to build a resilient and student-centered education system.
Administrative Secretary of the Ondo State Scholarship Board, Funso Omoniyi, explained that the intervention covers five categories — scholarship awards for exceptional students, financial aid for law school students, support for medical students on clinical studies, and assistance for students living with disabilities.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, disclosed that the state government had approved several interventions including the payment of WASSCE registration fees for public school students.
While expressing appreciation to the governor, the National President of the National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS), Temitope Alade, urged his colleagues to remain exemplary ambassadors of the state.
“We appreciate the governor’s commitment to education and the welfare of students. I encourage all beneficiaries to remain focused, disciplined and dedicated,” Alade said.
