The University of Ibadan branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has awarded scholarships totaling ₦1.1 million to 11 indigent students as part of efforts to support their academic pursuits and encourage excellence.
The beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous screening and interview process conducted by the scholarship selection committee. Over 100 students applied for the 2024/2025 ASUU Indigent Students Scholarship, but only 11 were deemed most deserving.
Two students received ₦200,000 each from the ASUU national body, while five students were awarded ₦100,000 each by the ASUU-UI branch. Additionally, four students were granted ₦50,000 each through the personal donation of Professor Tajudeen Akanji, a member of the branch.
Speaking during the award presentation ceremony held at the ASUU-UI Secretariat, Olajuwon Olayide Extension, Ajibode, the Chairman of ASUU-UI, Dr. Adefemi Afolabi, emphasized the Union’s commitment to supporting underprivileged but brilliant students, despite the financial and structural challenges currently facing the Union.
“Despite the delayed payment of salaries and the federal government’s failure to sign a new agreement with our Union, we believe the future of bright Nigerian youths must not be compromised due to financial hardship,” Dr. Afolabi said. He noted that the initiative also aims to instill values of compassion and social responsibility in the beneficiaries.
Also speaking at the event, ASUU Zonal Coordinator for Ibadan Zone, Professor Abiodun Olaniran—represented by ASUU LAUTECH Chairman, Dr. Olujimi Dada—reiterated that ASUU remains committed not only to the welfare of its members but also to broader societal development.
He encouraged union members to remain steadfast in demanding better conditions for staff and students in public universities.
Some of the scholarship recipients include Omotola Bello (Pharmacy), Alan Success Opeyemi (Economics), Moshood Opeyemi (Medicine and Surgery), Adegoke Adeseun Oladayo (Medicine and Surgery), Ogunlowo Tayo (Pharmacy), Bello Ayomide (Medicine and Surgery), and Adewumi Mary (Nursing), among others.
