….Kwara Govt Commends Qs Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode, Highlights Collaborative Efforts With Private Sector On Education
MOK Foundation Awards 130 WAEC Scholarships In Kwara
….. Lens Polytechnic Offa Proprietor, Dr. Azeez Yisa Bukky Announces Fully Funded Scholarship
….. Olofa-in-Council Applauds MOK’s Transformative Impact
The Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode (MOK) Foundation has given 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) scholarships to 130 less privileged students in Offa and Oyun local government areas of Kwara State.
The foundation granted the scholarships during an event held at Offa Grammar School (OGS) auditorium on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
Schools that benefited include Offa Grammar School (OGS), Ansar-Ud-Deen (AUD) College, Anglican Comprehensive College, Olalomi Comprehensive College, Ansarul Islam Secondary School, Moremi High School, Iyeru Okin African Secondary School, Tawakalitu Grammar School, Taoheed Secondary School, Iyeru Grammar School, St Mark Secondary School, Government Secondary School, Government Day Secondary School, St Claire’s Girls Secondary School, Offa Community Secondary School, Offa Baptist Secondary School, Okin High School, Nawar-Ud-Deen Secondary School, Goodness Royal College, Oyun Baptist High School, GDSS Igbonna, AUD Ijagbo, IHS Ikotun-Ile, IHS Igosun, IGS Ira, AUD Ipee, SS Aho-Ogbada, SS Erin-Ile, GSS Ilemona, OGS Ojoku, SSS Amberi among others.
His Royal Majesty, The Olofa of Offaland, Oba Mufutau Muhammad Gbadamosi Okikiola, Esuwoye II, Ajagungbade I, was represented by High Chief Isiaka Adebayo Shittu, the Asalofa of Offaland; Chief Onawola Bode, the Alagure of Offaland; Chief Esiele; Chief Ikolaba, and Chief Elepa.
Additionally, schools benefiting in Oyun local government area are:
The founder of MOK Foundation, Qs Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode, mentioned that the foundation will continue touching the lives of the people.
Represented by Mr. Saheed Lawal, Mr. Kayode expressed, “The MOK Foundation is proud to have touched upon these crucial areas in our pursuit of creating a better world. As I speak, I am glad to announce that we have awarded 130 performing students from various public schools across Offa and Oyun local government areas who have distinguished themselves with excellent performance in academics. You will agree with me that this is one of the biggest scholarships ever coming from an individual, and we expect more. Previously, we have paid tuition fees for students across educational levels from Primary to tertiary. In the history of the Offa Students Union Summer school programme, the last edition being 2023, we gave cash prizes to all the 3 best students from Primary one to SS3, including their tutors, while 21 best students in JSS 3 and 10 best in SS3 had their state examination fees and WAEC fees paid respectively.”
“As the scholarship recipients are here with us, let us acknowledge the transformative power of education and the ripple effect it creates in other sectors. In summary, scholarships and other forms of educational support have far-reaching impacts on society because they increase access to education, empower individuals, enhance career opportunities, foster social and community impact, promote diversity and inclusion, and generate long-term social benefits. By investing in education, societies can unlock the potential of their individuals, drive economic growth, and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.”
Speaking on the theme “Catalyzing Change: Private Partnership in Education for Kwara’s Bright Future,” the Special Adviser on Education to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, Dr. Adetola Ariyike Salau, lauded MOK Foundation for the strides in academic development.
She added that the contributions of the private sector cannot be overemphasized.
She said, “Our presence here is not merely a testament to our commitment to education but a shared acknowledgment of the transformative power it holds in shaping the destiny of individuals and communities. Today, we convene under the theme ‘Catalyzing Change: Private Partnerships in Education for Kwara’s Bright Future,’ a subject that resonates deeply with the mission of fostering accessible education for all.”
“Education, as we all know, is the cornerstone of societal progress. It is a powerful tool that breaks down barriers and empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Private partnerships in education play a pivotal role in expanding access, improving quality, and ensuring sustainability. By coming together, public and private entities can create a synergy that propels education to new heights.”
“The MOK Foundation’s commitment to providing WAEC/NECO scholarships for over 130 less privileged indigent students in Kwara State, with a concentration on Offa and Oyun LGs, exemplifies the transformative impact of collaborative efforts. It is a shining example of how private partnerships can bridge gaps and pave the way for a brighter future for our youth.”
“As we gather in this hall at Offa Grammar School, we are not just witnessing an event; we are witnessing the manifestation of a vision. A vision where education is not a privilege reserved for a few but a right bestowed upon every child, regardless of their socio-economic background. Kwara’s bright future lies in the hands of these scholars, and it is our collective responsibility to nurture and guide them.”
“I commend the MOK Foundation for its dedication to this cause and for selecting Offa Grammar School as the venue—a place that symbolizes the nurturing of young minds, the incubation of dreams, and the realization of potential.”
“Beyond today’s celebration, let us reflect on the sustainability of the impact we aim to achieve. Private partnerships are not only about financial support but also about creating lasting collaborations. It is about leveraging expertise, sharing resources, and building a network that ensures the longevity of educational initiatives. As we embark on this journey, let us commit to fostering enduring partnerships that will stand the test of time and continue to uplift generations to come.”
The Proprietor of Lens Polytechnic Offa, Dr. Azeez Yisa Bukky, congratulated the students for being beneficiaries of MOK Foundation’s 130 WAEC Scholarship disbursement.
He urged the students to be focused and determined with their education. They should believe in themselves and always see beyond to aspire for a better future. He said they can be the next MOK in their respective communities with education.
Dr. Azeez Yisa Bukky also commended the Founder of the Foundation, Qs Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode, for contributing meaningfully to the future of the students. He said the scholarship will shape the future of the students positively and give them a good focus to be great in life.
The Proprietor also announced a fully funded scholarship for one of the beneficiaries as part of his support of the good initiative MOK Foundation.
Other dignitaries at the event were the Offa Descendants Union (ODU) National President, Alhaji Salako Olaniyi Azeez Muideen, ably represented by ODU National Social Secretary, Muhydeen Idowu Oladipo; OGS Senior Secondary school principal, FT Salami; HOD Social Sciences and Humanity at the Federal Polytechnic Offa (FEDPOFFA), Mr. Bammeke Muyideen; The head Coach of Olalomi royal volleyball club/Academy, Mrs. Faremi Bukola Mary; Dr. Ikeola Suhurat Olatinwo, a lecturer at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN); Former SA On Special Duties to Kwara Governor, Hon. Waheed Olanrewaju Alenuloro; Imam Ibrahim Isiaka; Hon Ismail Gbadamosi; Hon Waheed Bukoye; Alhaji Tunde Salahudeen, and many others.