Leading financial institution OPay has extended its N1.2 billion 10-year scholarship scheme to students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, reinforcing its commitment to education and youth empowerment. With OAU becoming the third beneficiary of the initiative, the programme continues to provide financial relief to students, allowing them to focus on academic excellence and personal development.
According to OPay, the scholarship is part of its strategic investment in Nigeria’s future leaders, particularly in regions rich in academic talent. By reducing the financial burdens on students, the company aims to foster a generation of professionals equipped to drive progress across various sectors.
Speaking on the initiative, OPay’s Chief Public Affairs Officer, Justin Zhang, emphasized the critical role of education in national development. “Obafemi Awolowo University has a legacy of producing some of the nation’s brightest minds, and we are proud to support these future leaders as part of our broader commitment to education and empowerment,” he said.
OAU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), Professor Yomi Daramola, described the scholarship as a game-changer for students struggling with financial constraints. He noted that while the university has always supported indigent students, OPay’s intervention marks a major milestone in expanding access to education. “This generous donation provides a crucial safety net, ensuring that students can focus on their studies rather than basic survival,” he said.
The impact of the scholarship is already being felt by students, particularly those in fields with high tuition fees. A 600-level Clinical Sciences student, Omoboriowo Isaac, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous relief for my family and me. It significantly eases our financial burden and ensures that I can complete my degree with full confidence.”
Beyond financial aid, the initiative is reshaping the future of students, many of whom represent the hopes of their families and communities. With OAU joining two other universities that have already benefited from the programme, OPay reassured Nigerians of its commitment to expanding the scheme to more tertiary institutions nationwide.
The scholarship programme reflects OPay’s belief in education as a powerful tool for progress and inclusivity. As the initiative grows, students from various regions of Nigeria can look forward to life-changing opportunities, further solidifying OPay’s role in unlocking multiple potentials and creating a brighter future for the country’s youth
