The maiden edition of the Dr. Adegoke Fajemisin Scholarship Fund (DAFSF) was successfully held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Anglican Diocese of Ilesa Heritage City, Oremeji Street, Ilesa, Osun State, bringing together dignitaries, education stakeholders, traditional rulers, and students from across Ijesaland.
The event, which featured students’ paper presentations, university scholarship awards, and recognition of outstanding educators, marked a significant milestone in promoting educational development within the region.
Proceedings began with the arrival and registration of guests, followed by opening prayers and anthems. In his welcome address, Prince Adesuyi Adeleye, President of the Ijesa Youth Forum, commended the vision and commitment of the initiator, Dr. Olufemi Fajemisin, describing the initiative as a transformative investment in the future of Ijesaland.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the decoration of Ven. Dr. and Mrs. Adegoke Fajemisin as Patron and Patroness by the Bishop of Ilesa Diocese, Anglican Communion, Prof. Dapo Asaju.
In his remarks, Dr. Olufemi Fajemisin emphasized the importance of education as a pathway to greatness, noting that the scholarship initiative was inspired by the legacy of his parents and his desire to give back to society. He encouraged students to seize the opportunity and remain focused on their academic pursuits.
Delivering goodwill messages, the Bishop of Ilesa Diocese, Prof. Dapo Folorunso Asaju, described education as the best form of investment, urging beneficiaries to remain hopeful and committed to excellence. He also offered prayers for the students and commended the Fajemisin family for their generosity.
The Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, His Imperial Majesty Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup Ajimoko III, represented by HRM Oba Olufemi Agunsoye, Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, lauded the initiative for its inclusiveness across the six local government areas of Ijesaland and prayed for its continued success.
Other royal fathers present included HRM Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe (Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa), HRM Amos Adewumi Ogidiolu (Oniwoye), HRM Oba Augustine Alowolodu III (Elere of Ere-Ijesa), and Oba Michael Adekunle Adedeji (Adooko of Idooko-Ijesa).
Representatives from the Osun State Ministry of Education also praised the initiative, describing it as a long-term investment that would shape future leaders. They expressed optimism that beneficiaries would become professionals who would contribute meaningfully to society.
The event featured a keynote lecture on “Youth Reactiveness in Nigeria: Who Is to Blame?” alongside paper presentations by shortlisted student participants from various secondary schools across Ijesaland.
Following the judges’ deliberations, selected students received awards, while outstanding candidates were granted full university scholarships under the scheme.
Special recognition awards were also presented, including the Olumayowa Oke Leadership Award for the best principal in Ilesa and the Tolu Adesanmi Teacher Excellence Award, both aimed at encouraging excellence in the education sector.
The scholarship fund, according to organisers, is designed to identify and support talented students across Ijesaland, with a mission centered on educational advancement, poverty eradication, and economic growth.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the initiative would continue to expand opportunities for young people in the region.
Coverage script ✍️ Camera credit: Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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