The JEMITIM Foundation has taken another step towards promoting education by awarding scholarships to two students of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU). This event took place on Wednesday, 2 October 2024, during the first edition of the JEMITIM Foundation Scholarship Award Presentation at the main campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
The two recipients were Miss Edidiong Edet, a 200-level student from the Department of Marketing, and Miss Favour Mkpayen, a 300-level student from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The scholarships were a reward for their hard work and dedication to their studies.
Professor Ekanem’s Vision for the Foundation
Professor (Mrs.) Jemimah T. Ekanem, founder of the JEMITIM Foundation Scholarship Award and Director of Quality Assurance at AKSU, shared the story behind the foundation. She said the scholarship was a way of giving back to the community by supporting hardworking young people, especially female students, in their education.
She also explained that the scholarship is based on merit and aims to encourage excellent students. There are plans to extend the scholarship to postgraduate students. The foundation also has a Graduation Award for the best graduating student in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, worth ₦30,000, and another for the best graduating student in the Faculty of Agriculture, worth ₦20,000.
The Scholarship Selection Process
Engr. Yireobong Akpaba, Chairman of the Scholarship Board, spoke about how the recipients were chosen. He highlighted that the selection process was tough but fair, with only the most deserving students being selected.
Remarks from the Vice-Chancellor
Professor Nse U. Essien, Vice-Chancellor of AKSU, praised the founder for her generosity. He said the scholarship was even more impressive because of the economic challenges faced today. He called for more balance in future scholarships to benefit both male and female students equally. He congratulated the winners, telling them that their hard work had paid off. He also encouraged all students to use the resources provided by the Federal Government to support Nigerian students.
To support the scholarship further, Professor Essien added ₦50,000 to each of the awards given to the recipients.
Messages of Support
Dr. Ebi G. Eno-Ibanga, Registrar of AKSU, gave her congratulations to the foundation and the winners. She urged all students to always be prepared for opportunities because good preparation leads to success.
Professor (Mrs.) Franca Anijiaobi-Idem, Director of the Centre for Continuing Education, also praised Professor Ekanem for her work. She encouraged the recipients to stay focused and continue working towards their dreams.
Mr. Timothy Ekanem, Deputy Bursar and husband of the founder, thanked everyone involved for making the event a success.
Parents and Recipients Share Their Thoughts
Mr. James Mkpayen, father of one of the recipients, expressed his gratitude to the foundation and the university for supporting education. The scholarship recipients, in their speeches, expressed their happiness and thanked the foundation for recognising their efforts.
Appreciation and Thanks
Dr. (Mrs.) Jewel Thomas, a board member of the foundation, thanked Professor Ekanem for her desire to support young people. She also thanked the Vice-Chancellor and university management for their backing and appreciated the board members and staff who worked hard to make the event successful.
Presentation of Awards
The highlight of the event was the presentation of scholarship awards. Miss Edidiong Edet and Miss Favour Mkpayen each received ₦100,000 as part of their scholarships, presented by the Vice-Chancellor.
Dignitaries at the Event
The event was attended by many important figures, including:
- Prof. Ita Ewa-Oboho, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration
- Dr. Jacob Eseneyen, Bursar
- Prof. Jarlath Umoh, Dean of Postgraduate Studies
- Prof. Esio O. Oboho, Dean, Faculty of Engineering
- Dr. Dominic Ekpo, Dean, Students’ Affairs
- Dr. Okokon Attih, Head of Marketing
- Dr. Edem Isuamfon, Head of Mechanical Engineering
- Dr. Henry Johnson, Department of Electrical/Electronics Engineering
- Dr. Itakufok George, Department of Soil Science
- Dr. (Mrs.) Mfoniso P. Uko, Faculty of Biological Sciences Representative
- Mr. Akaninyene Ibanga, Head of Administration, Office of the Vice-Chancellor
- Mrs. James Mkpayen
- Comrade Etimbuk Daniel, Students’ Union President
- Other staff and students of AKSU
The JEMITIM Foundation continues to show its dedication to helping young students achieve their goals through education. This event was a reflection of what can happen when people come together to support and encourage the next generation of leaders.