Seven undergraduate students from across Nigerian tertiary institutions have been awarded scholarships during the official launch of the David Dickson educational foundation and maiden edition of its annual scholarship ceremony.
Speaking during the award ceremony held in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, the foundation’s Board of Trustees Chairman, Dr Andrew Jegede, said the establishment of the foundation is a way to put smiles on the faces of the people and give back to the society.
Jegede said, “It is with great pleasure and honor that I stand before you today on this special occasion of David Dickson Educational Foundation and Scholarship Award ceremony.
“Today we are gathered not only to celebrate the hardwork and dedication of our scholars but to recognise the hope that will shape our future. Let us begin by congratulating all students receiving scholarships today, this is not just mere recognition of academic excellence but the testament, determination and commitment to the growth of the nation.
“You have navigated challenges, pushed boundaries, demonstrated that success is the result of dedication and unwavering purpose.
“To the parents, guardians and families, the praise, support and sacrifice belongs to you. Your encouragement has been the foundation for this students’ achievement. You believe in their effort and you have nurtured their ambition and for that we celebrate you too. Scholarships do more than just empower dreams and to fulfill the desire to strive for excellence.
“The scholarship provided by other institutions is transformative. We are not just giving students the means to pursue their ambition but creating future leaders, investors and change makers who will contribute to society in ways that we can not yet imagine.”
Continuing, Dr Jegede urged the scholarship beneficiaries to be good ambassadors and set good examples for others.
“To our scholars, as you continue in your journey, remember that this scholarship is both a reward and a responsibility. You are the touch bearer of tomorrow, the knowledge you gain, skills you develop and values you uphold will shape the community you belong to and the world you wish to create.
“In life, we are often asked what we can do to make a difference, your education is a powerful tool, use it wisely. Withhold your ambition, be thoughtful in your ambition and be passionate in your success. The world needs your energy, passion for positive change.
“Education is not the end goal, it is the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, growth and service to humanity as the scholarship given to you is a sign that you have proven that you can excel but like this, not be the peak of your achievement. Let it be a stepping stone to a future filled with purpose, impact and success,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the Dickson’s family, Daniel Dickson eulogised his late brother and expressed commitment to continue in his legacy.
He said, “I want to appreciate everyone available for this amazing event. I thank the BoT of this foundation. Your dedication, resilience and hardwork have been crucial to the success of this foundation.”
According to him, David Dickson was a man of impact, adding that the idea of a foundation to celebrate and support scholarship was in a bid to sustain his (David) legacy.
“David was a type of person that believed that given the right opportunity, everyone has potential to do something incredible. He lived a life of impact and touched so many lives. This foundation is a testament to the kind of life he lived. The love and dedication shown here is something I deeply appreciate.
“That is the reason why I and my sister came up with this initiative. We hope to carry on with his passion and dedication to touch lives. We hope that we are able to touch lives just the way my brother was able to. We want to make sure that his impact continues, that is why we used his name for this initiative.
“I, therefore, congratulate the beneficiaries of this initiative and encourage you to keep up the good work.”
Earlier in her welcome address, Funmi Adesigbin congratulated the beneficiaries and encouraged them to desire to always be better.
“Each of the young scholars has demonstrated remarkable dedication to their studies and a profound commitment to their personal growth and development, while ensuring they kept faith in their desire for better education.
“We are here to celebrate a remarkable group of individuals, seven students who came out of about 189 students. We have found them to be exceptional not only in academica but in morals and physically.
“We encourage you not to relent but pursue excellence so that you can better your society. Make good use of today’s opportunity. This foundation was found because of the vision of somebody, we also want you to have a vision. Think outside your academics,” she said.
Speaking on the essence of the scholarship, a beneficiary, Owodunni Olugbenga Joshua, a 300 level student of Pharmacy from the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, expressed her appreciation to the foundation for the support.
Another beneficiary, Ogunsola Esther, a 300 level student of Political Science from Tai Solarin University of Education, stated that, “The David Dickson educational foundation is a beacon of hope for me to continue my education and aspiring for me to help others who are in this same condition.”
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