Wole Oke, the lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State in the House of Representatives, has awarded scholarships to at least 1,240 students across nine technical schools in the state.
In a statement shared with journalists on Wednesday, Oke said the scholarship programme, launched in 2021, aims to promote technical education among youths.
At Government Technical College, Osogbo, 469 students have benefited from the scholarships, while 213 students at the technical college in Ile-Ife are currently receiving support. Other beneficiaries include 150 students in Ijebu-Ijesa, 39 in Ara, 109 in Inisa, nine in Otan Ayegbaju, 88 in Gbongan, and 12 in Osu.
The scholarship covers school fees, enrolment charges, lesson fees, and related expenses, amounting to approximately N15m per term and N40m per academic session.
Oke described the initiative as a strategic measure to combat unemployment, highlighting that technical skills help youth become self-reliant and increase employment opportunities.
He noted that the scholarship reflects his long-standing support for investing in vocational education and aligns with the Federal Government’s recent policy introducing free tuition in all Federal Technical Colleges nationwide.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Oke reaffirmed his commitment to supporting programmes that enhance education, skills acquisition, and youth development across his constituency and Osun State.
“Technical education remains one of the most practical pathways to tackling unemployment in our society. By equipping our young people with relevant skills, we are not only preparing them for jobs but also empowering them to become job creators. This scholarship is a deliberate investment in the future of our youths and the economic growth of Osun State,” Oke said.
In a video message shared with journalists, beneficiaries such as Christopher Olaniyan, Abiodu Korede (Osogbo), and Abosede Durojaye (Ife) expressed gratitude to Oke for the support.
“I want to appreciate Hon. Wole Oke, on behalf of my fellow students, for this support. God will bless you abundantly. We promise not to disappoint you,” one beneficiary said.
