AS part of activities to mark its five-year anniversary, the Orogine Ohwofa Education Foundation (OEF), a non-governmental organisation, has awarded scholarships to fifteen indigent students from the Uwheru Kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The scholarship recipients include ten students from three secondary schools and five undergraduates, all drawn from the five quarters that make up the Uwheru Kingdom.
Speaking at the award ceremony held at his country home in Ohoror, the founder and sponsor of the foundation, Lagos-based philanthropist Chief Simeon Ohwofa, expressed delight at the turnout and emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“It is always a great pleasure when you call people together and they honour your invitation. Today is special as we are trying to begin again, to regenerate Uwheru. This marks five successful years of the Orogine Ohwofa Education Foundation, and as we enter the next phase, we are taking stock of our impact so far,” he said.
Chief Ohwofa noted with concern the growing disinterest in education among the youth in the community, stating: “Many of us who live outside the community have children doing well, but what about those we left behind? The reports have been disappointing. This idea that ‘education is a scam’ is gaining traction, and we are saying no, it must stop. We’ve come back to Uwheru to remind the younger generation that education is the only path forward.”
He further urged the students to take their education seriously: “When you are educated, you gain confidence, you can go anywhere, and you understand the world better. You learn to distinguish between superstition and science. Go to school, but don’t just pass exams, let the school pass through you. Learn character, because it is character that takes you forward.”
According to Chief Ohwofa, beneficiaries of the foundation are closely monitored from the day they receive the scholarship, with mentorship provided to support their academic and personal development.
“As long as you are from Uwheru, our doors are open for questions and guidance. If you are unsure about what to study, we are here to direct you. Our goal is to review the journey so far and plan for the next five years. By our 10th anniversary, we hope many of you will be thriving and can return to say you passed through this programme,” he added.
He further expressed hope that the foundation will outlive its founders and continue to impact future generations.
The event, chaired by Professor Patrick Muoboghare, featured renowned educationist Dr Charles Apoki as guest speaker. Other dignitaries in attendance included Professor Sunny Awhefeada, Dr Samson Ogege, school principals, teachers, clergy, community leaders, and students from Uwheru Grammar School, Ohoror Secondary School, and Agadama Grammar School, among others.
