By Providence Ayanfeoluwa & Matthew Johnson

To bridge the gap widened by lack of resources, Paradigm Initiative Foundation, a nonprofit organization, has awarded scholarships to 10 indigent students in Ajegunle as part of its commitment to giving back to the community where the organisation started.

Paradigm Initiative established the Taiwo Bankole Award to support outstanding students from Indigent families in Ajegunle, in achieving their educational goals and as well support resident youth/students in securing university education in technology courses, such as Information

Technology (IT), Software Development, Computer Engineering, and other related fields.

Speaking at the 2025 Taiwo Bankole Awards Ceremony in Lagos, Chief Executive Officer of PIN Mr. Gbenga Sesan, said the initiative aims to close the educational gaps created by limited resources and to give back to the Ajegunle community where the organisation was founded.

He explained that the scholarships are designed to help young residents pursue university degrees in technology-related fields, saying: “Initially, the opportunity focused strictly on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, STEM courses, but it has now expanded to include students in Islamic Studies, Philosophy and other areas.

Sesan said that to qualify; applicants must reside in Ajegunle, present a reference letter, secure an admission offer, pass the screening process, maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 and remain focused on their studies, adding that the scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, books and other learning materials.

A board member of Paradigm Initiative, Dr. Oluseyi Adebayo, emphasized that education remains a critical tool for development, noting that the economic challenges in the country have made it increasingly difficult for parents to fund their children’s education, causing many young talents to abandon their dreams.

He further stated that the scholarship scheme will continue beyond Ajegunle, with plans to extend opportunities to students across Nigeria.

Adebayo said: “Paradigm Initiative is a reputable organisation, and serious-minded students who aspire to make Nigeria proud should take advantage of this opportunity.

A beneficiary, Miss Otiede Goodness, a 300-level Cybersecurity student of the Delta State University of Science and Technology, described the programme as a mentorship-driven initiative that nurtures future leaders and promotes positive values regardless of background or tribe.

Also, Mr. Kelley Bassey, a parent of another beneficiary studying at the University of Uyo, described Paradigm Initiative as a “lifesaver,” recounting how he struggled to pay his daughter’s fees before she applied for the scholarship and had all her expenses covered.