By Ebube Ojukwu and Rofiat Aderounmu
The Ademola Segun Educational Foundation (ASEF) has awarded scholarships to 10 students in the field of biological science across various institutions.
The scholarship, established 15 years ago in honour of the Emeritus Professor of Zoology, Ademola Segun, is aimed at promoting science and science education in higher institutions.
Chairman ASEF Trustees, Adeyemi Amuwo, said the selection criteria for the scholarship include biological science undergraduates in their final year or 300 level, academic excellence and financially challenged.
“Our selection process is rigorous, and we look for a combination of academic excellence and financial need. Our main essence is to give back; we have had past recipients start giving back by buying JAMB forms for students. That is the impact we want to make, we want to create a ripple effect of kindness and generosity that goes beyond just our foundation,” he said.
He added: “This award helps them have interest in education because they are brilliant and have financial support. They can concentrate and excel. We are committed to making a positive impact in this specific area, and we believe that our focus will yield the greatest results,” he said.
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Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Grace International Schools, Grace Ogunseye, emphasized the importance of giving back to the society and investing in the education of young people.
“The essence of life is about humanity and this scholarship emulates that, as it awards students in tertiary universities who are in need of financial assistance to complete their education. Life is about giving back and so this foundation is everything as it showcases the importance of giving back. In fact God has created us to touch others, service to mankind, to humanity. When we give back, we are not only impacting the lives of others, but we are also fulfilling our purpose as human beings,” she said.
According to Adebola Segun, the son of the late Prof Ademola Segun, the scholarship has a rich history as his father’s vision for the foundation was driven by a passion for education and a desire to support students in need.
“The scholarship program had become a vital part of his family’s commitment to education and community development. My father started this when he was 70 years old, 20 years ago if he was alive, he would have been 90. But it’s something that he was very passionate about when he started it, he wanted to ensure that students who were doing well academically but were facing financial difficulties, would have the opportunity to complete their education.
Secretary ASEF Trustees, Seyi Joseph (SAN), highlighted the significant impact of the scholarship program, to the students and the society.