The best graduating student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, Stephen Emeomi-Magi, has been awarded N500,000 by the Ahonaruogho family of Benin City, Edo State.
The prize, named ‘Mrs Josephine Ajua Ahonaruogho Prize Money for Best Graduating Student,’ was announced by Dr Richard Oma-Ahonaruogho, SAN, in a correspondence to the institution.
OAUSTECH’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, revealing that Emeomi-Magi, from the Department of Electrical/Electronics, emerged as the overall best graduate for the 2023/2024 session during the university’s convocation on March 4.
Out of 995 graduating students, 31 secured First Class honors, 367 earned Second Class Upper Division, 495 achieved Second Class Lower Division, while 102 graduated with Third Class.
Dr. Oma-Ahonaruogho expressed hope that the award would inspire more students to strive for excellence.
“It is hoped that the award will further stimulate academic excellence and produce graduates that will lead Nigeria in her quest for excellence and true greatness,” he stated in his letter.
The institution’s Registrar, Abiodun Okunniga, also commended Emeomi-Magi for his outstanding performance.
“Emeomi-Magi’s achievement is a testament to hard work and perseverance. We are proud to recognise his accomplishment, and once again, we thank the Ahonaruogho family for their support and partnership,” Okunniga said.
He further appreciated the Ahonaruogho family for their investment in OAUSTECH students, saying it would have a lasting impact on their lives and Nigeria’s development.
In an emotional response, Emeomi-Magi admitted that the recognition came as a shock.
“I was overwhelmed when the institution’s management informed me that I had emerged as the best graduating student. I sincerely thank God, the university management, and the Ahonaruogho family for recognising my hard work and dedication to my studies,” he said.
