Edo College, Benin City at the weekend witnessed the inaugural edition of the Echichoya Emmanuel Edobor Scholarship Award (EEESA) honouring 16 students for outstanding academic achievements.
The scholarship, initially set to cover the entire academic year, will instead fund the second and third terms, following unforeseen circumstances that prevented its implementation in the first term.
Echichoya Emmanuel Edobor, the donor who is also an Edo College alumnus from the Class of 1993, addressed the recipients via a virtual message, read by Azuka Ofunne. In his message, Edobor praised the dedication and hard work of the awardees, highlighting their commitment to academic excellence.
“I am thrilled to present this scholarship to such remarkable students whose exceptional achievements testify to their commitment and excellence. This recognition not only highlights their hard work and dedication but also underscores the importance of fostering young talents,” he said
Edobor also expressed his gratitude to those who helped make the scholarship award a reality, emphasising the vital role such supports play in building a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.
The donor’s elder brother, Andrew Edobor, attended the event on behalf of his brother and shared how philanthropy has long been a family tradition.
“Out of all of us, I am the only one who did not attend Edo College, but I do the same thing in my own school,” he remarked.
Emphasizing their family’s dedication to helping others, he also urged students to “wake up and learn”, while appreciating the school’s staff for their efforts in supporting the students.
Speaking on behalf of Emmanuel Edobor, Charles Agbonlahor, a former student of Edo College, outlined the scholarship’s objectives.
According to Agbonlahor, the scholarship aims to encourage students to take their education seriously and strive for greater heights. He stated that the Echichoya Emmanuel Edobor Scholarship Award 2024 edition favoured 16 students from JSS2 to SS3 across Edo College’s four arms.
“This is the first edition, and Edo College is the first beneficiary, we plan to expand the programme to other private and government schools across Edo State,” Agbonlahor said.
The principal of Edo College, Justice Aigbe Eghe, an alumnus of the school also, expressed his appreciation for the scholarship and the continuous support from the school’s alumni. He noted that contributions from former students have driven 85 to 90 percent of the school’s development.
“We are very grateful for what Mr. Emmanuel Edobor has done. This message will be shared with the general old boys’ platforms,” Eghe said, adding that the president of the Edo College Old Boys Association, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, is keen on personally thanking the donor.
Eghe also urged parents to collaborate with the school in their children’s academic and moral development, recognising the essential role they play as foundational figures in their children’s education.
Parents of the scholarship recipients also expressed their gratitude during the event. A parent, Hope Iyare, a lawyer, thanked the school for its efforts and pledged continued support.
“By the grace of God, we are ready to support the school in any way, anytime,” he said.
Deacon Clement Igheneki, whose son was among the recipients, echoed this sentiment: “The labour of the students who Study diligently, and their parents urging them to always read has not been in vain.”
“I am not surprised my son is receiving this award because the elder brother is equally good. I want to thank the teachers and staff for this opportunity to celebrate with our children today,” Deacon Igheneki said.
Notably, the awardees shared their joy and appreciation during the event.
