Esa-Oke, Osun State – November 15, 2024: The quiet town of Esa-Oke came alive on November 15, 2024, as the LOLA EDUCATION Foundation (LEF) held its highly anticipated annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony. The event, hosted at Esa-Oke Grammar School, was a momentous occasion that celebrated 25 exceptional students from public and private secondary schools in the region, each awarded a scholarship worth ₦40,000 to support their education.
The LOLA EDUCATION Foundation, known for its unwavering commitment to educational development and youth empowerment, was founded in 2010 to commemorate the 50th birthday of Mrs. Olufunlola Olaitan Adediran. Since its incorporation in 2011 under the leadership of the late Chief Olaniyi Faseyi, the Foundation has remained a beacon of hope for underprivileged students in Esa-Oke and neighboring communities.
Empowering Education, Transforming Lives
The ceremony showcased LEF’s enduring mission to bridge educational gaps and invest in the next generation of leaders. Over the years, the Foundation has initiated transformative projects, including annual scholarships, payment of NECO/WAEC fees for indigent students, and donations to communities affected by the Boko Haram insurgency. It also offers mentorship opportunities that inspire students to pursue excellence in education and beyond.
Speaking at this year’s event, Mrs. Kehinde Ijitona, the Deputy Rector of OSCOTECH and a Board of Trustees member of LEF, served as the Special Guest of Honour and delivered the keynote address. In her stirring speech, Mrs. Ijitona highlighted the transformative power of education as a tool for personal growth and community development. She commended the Foundation’s efforts, stating, “LOLA EDUCATION Foundation has demonstrated a rare dedication to empowering youth through education. By supporting these young scholars, we are not just transforming their lives but also shaping the future of our community.”
Driving Community Development
Beyond scholarships, the Foundation partners with local initiatives like the Esa-Oke Youth Empowerment Program (EYEP) and the Esa-Oke Renewal Initiative (ERI) to implement projects that promote youth employment and enhance access to quality education. These collaborations underline LEF’s holistic approach to community development, ensuring that young people in Esa-Oke are equipped with the skills and resources they need to thrive.
Mentorship for the Next Generation
LEF’s mentorship program continues to be a highlight of its annual activities. Over the years, the Foundation has brought together distinguished speakers to inspire and guide students. Past mentors include Hon. Kunle Ige, Prof. Adedun (Mountain Top University), Hon. Irekandu, Dr. Agbolade (former Dean, OSCOTECH), and Mrs. Kehinde Ijitona. Their mentorship sessions have left a lasting impact, fostering a culture of excellence and ambition among students.
This year’s award recipients expressed their gratitude, with many describing the scholarship as a lifeline that would ease the financial burden of their education. One of the awardees, a senior secondary school student, shared, “This scholarship has given me hope and motivation to work harder. I am grateful to the LOLA EDUCATION Foundation for believing in me.”
Building a Brighter Future
The LOLA EDUCATION Foundation’s initiatives reflect a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education to uplift individuals and communities. By supporting students and partnering with local organizations, LEF is creating a ripple effect of positive change in Esa-Oke and beyond.
As the event concluded, Kolawole Jaiyeoba, the Foundation’s Program Manager, reiterated LEF’s commitment to its vision, stating, “We are driven by a passion to nurture talents and unlock the potential of young people. This is not just about scholarships; it’s about building a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”
With its 2024 Scholarship Awards Ceremony, LOLA EDUCATION Foundation has once again reaffirmed its place as a catalyst for change, inspiring hope and progress in the heart of Osun State.
