Ondo Students Get N400m Bursary, Scholarship Boost from Governor Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has officially launched a comprehensive financial aid scheme for students of Ondo origin attending tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The initiative, which covers bursaries, scholarships, and general financial assistance, sees an allocation of N400 million and is set to benefit 13,360 students.

The programme, inaugurated on Tuesday at the Cocoa Conference Centre within the Governor’s Office in Akure, the state capital, outlined its beneficiaries. These include 11,907 students receiving bursaries, 614 scholarship awardees, 239 students enrolled in Law School, 500 medical students undergoing clinical training, and 100 physically challenged students who will receive direct financial support.

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the critical role of education, describing it as the bedrock upon which successful societies are built and the cornerstone for sustainable growth. He stated that his administration is making significant investments in the state's youth, communities, and future, aligning with the “OUR EASE” development agenda. Highlighting further educational commitments, the governor noted that the 2026 Budget for Economic Consolidation has dedicated substantial funds to the sector, including plans for the construction and renovation of 500 primary schools. He also mentioned the commencement of a Digital Literacy Programme, which involves distributing digital tablets to students in 50 public schools.

Aiyedatiwa explained that the digital initiative aims to equip students with essential digital competencies required in a rapidly advancing technological world, ensuring that Ondo State children are not left behind in innovation and emerging opportunities. He further added that the government is investing in its teaching staff and has recently recognized outstanding achievements among students, teachers, and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.

Earlier, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, praised the programme as a clear indication of Governor Aiyedatiwa's dedication to advancing education, improving student welfare, and empowering young people from Ondo State. He specifically commended the governor for approving the N400 million for the 2026 bursary, scholarship, and financial assistance scheme, noting that the timely release of these funds was crucial for the programme's execution.

Professor Ajibefun also revealed that Governor Aiyedatiwa had authorized the release of N633.918 million for the payment of the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) registration fees for students in public secondary schools statewide. Additionally, the commissioner confirmed the governor’s approval for the immediate implementation of the Federal Government’s new salary structure for unions in the state’s tertiary institutions, coupled with a substantial increase in subvention to enable these institutions to adopt the new structure effectively.