Members of Great Ife Alumni Association (GIAA) Dallas Fort Worth DFW recently awarded scholarships worth 20,800,000 naira to 104 outstanding students. The ceremony, which was held at the Oduduwa Hall of the University, marked the second edition of the initiative, which has continued to make a significant impact on students’ academic journeys.
The event commenced with a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Yomi Daramola. The guests were received at the Council Chamber, Floor-O-Gallery, Ground Floor of the University Hall, where members of the DFW Alumni Branch, led by its President, Mr. Dolapo Ajayi, formally presented their mission and reaffirmed their commitment to the university’s development.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Daramola celebrated the consistency and impact of the Dallas Branch’s scholarship initiative, recalling that its inaugural edition in 2024 benefited 52 students.
“We are pleased to note that 16 of last year’s scholarship recipients have now graduated with distinction, some ranking among the top in their faculties. The renewal of scholarships for 36 students and the extension to 58 new recipients reflect the unwavering dedication of our alumni. This expansion brings the total number of beneficiaries to an impressive 104,” he announced.
Chairman of the GIAA Scholarship Committee, Mr. Tokunbo Adejuyigbe, underscored the broader vision behind the program. “This scholarship is not just about financial assistance; it is about creating a sustainable culture of academic excellence and responsibility,” Mr. Adejuyigbe said. “We believe that by easing the financial constraints of bright students, we are empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers.”
The President of the DFW Branch, Mr. Dolapo Ajayi, reaffirmed the branch’s resolve to sustain and expand the initiative. This scholarship scheme is a long-term commitment. Our goal is to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the academic aspirations of deserving students. Beyond financial support, we are also rolling out mentorship programs to provide guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities for all Dallas Scholars,” he revealed.
One of the recipients commented that the scholarship is a game-changer which lifts a huge financial burden and motivates us to work even harder.
In her closing remarks, the Director of the University Advancement Office, Dr. Adeduntan Segun-Olasanmi, lauded the alumni’s unwavering dedication.
“The impact of the Dallas Branch is undeniable. From infrastructural projects to this remarkable scholarship initiative, they continue to exemplify the spirit of giving back. Their efforts will have a lasting effect, not only on the recipients but also on the larger university community,” Dr. Segun-Olasanmi noted.
With a strong commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and community impact, the GIAA Dallas Fort Worth Branch continues to strengthen the bond between past and present Great Ife students, ensuring that OAU remains a beacon of excellence.
source: GIAA/OAU newsletter
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