Over 150 students from Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State have benefited from a 15 million naira educational scholarship scheme sponsored by the Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Moses Osogi.
The beneficiaries received the scholarship on the 24th of this Month, at the Sir Thompson Egbe Educational Foundation, Anong, Abi Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Osogi said the scholarship award was a fulfilment of the vision he unveiled last year during which similar support was extended to students from Abi Local Government Area.
According to him, the initiative was driven by his passion for education and commitment to giving back to society.
The Commissioner described the gesture as intentional and timely, adding that the scholarship programme represents the dividend of democracy.
Dr. Osogi expressed appreciation to the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu for empowering appointees to get to the grassroots communities in assisting the people.
He explained that since the Governor could not be everywhere, they were encouraged to replicate his people-oriented gestures, especially his commitment to the welfare of citizens.
Dr Osogi stressed that the scholarship scheme was not driven by political ambition but by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by students who struggle to pay tuition fees and meet basic academic needs.
The Commissioner charged beneficiaries to remain studious and disciplined, while commending them for meeting the set criteria.
Dr. Osogi reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the programme and announced plans to extend future scholarship support to medical and postgraduate students within the year.
Earlier, the Founding Coordinator of the Sir Thompson Egbe Educational Foundation, Dr. Pringle Egbe, said the selection of beneficiaries was strictly merit-based, noting that applicants were required to meet a minimum CGPA of 3.5, among other conditions.
In separate interviews, beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for the support.
Mr. Usani Onen, a 200-level Accounting student of the University of Calabar, described the scholarship as timely relief, especially as a self-sponsored student.
Meanwhile, Miss Goodness Usani, a 200-level student of Language and Education, UNICAL, appreciated the gesture and prayed for God’s blessings upon the Commissioner.
Ayomobi Etim, a 200-level Civil Engineering student of the University of Lagos, said he was overwhelmed with joy upon receiving the scholarship funds of one hundred thousand naira and commended Dr. Osogi for his benevolence.
The event was attended by members of the Traditional Rulers’ Council of Abi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Rosemary Onah, among others.
