By Ayomide Otitoju
Leading Nigerian financial institution, OPay, has extended its N1.2 billion 10-year scholarship scheme to students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, making it the third beneficiary of the initiative in the country.
In a statement, OPay reaffirmed its commitment to education and youth empowerment, emphasizing that the scholarship programme is designed to alleviate financial burdens and enable students to focus on their studies and personal development. By extending the initiative to OAU, OPay continues its strategic investment in future leaders, particularly in regions with diverse academic potential and talent.
Speaking on the initiative, OPay’s Chief Public Affairs Officer, Justin Zhang, underscored the importance of education in nation-building and reiterated the company’s dedication to fostering opportunities for students nationwide. “Obafemi Awolowo University has a legacy of producing some of the nation’s brightest minds, and we are proud to support these future leaders as part of our broader commitment to education and empowerment,” he stated.
OAU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Yomi Daramola, lauded the scholarship scheme, noting its significant impact on students in need. “The university has long been committed to supporting indigent students, but our efforts can only go so far. This generous donation from OPay marks a significant milestone, going beyond what alumni contributions have achieved over the years. It provides a crucial safety net, ensuring students can focus on their education without financial distress,” he remarked.
A student from the Clinical Sciences Department, Omoboriowo Isaac, who attended the unveiling ceremony, expressed gratitude for the initiative. “As a student with one of the highest tuition fees at OAU, receiving this scholarship is a tremendous relief. It eases the financial burden on my family and allows me to focus on my studies. This support ensures I can complete my degree with confidence,” he said.
The beneficiaries of this initiative represent not just individual students but also the aspirations of their families and communities. OPay’s intervention plays a pivotal role in ensuring that their academic dreams are realized. The expansion to OAU follows the successful implementation of the scholarship programme in two other renowned universities last year.
While OAU is the latest beneficiary, OPay has reassured Nigerians that its vision extends to other tertiary institutions nationwide. The scholarship initiative underscores OPay’s belief that education is a powerful tool for driving progress and inclusivity.
As the programme continues to expand, students from various regions across Nigeria can look forward to benefiting from this life-changing initiative, reaffirming OPay’s dedication to unlocking potential and creating a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
