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The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Alumni Association, Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) branch, recently held its 3rd Dallas Scholars Award ceremony at the Oduduwa Hall of the institution and awarded 104 scholarships worth N20.8 million to outstanding students of the institution.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, ahead of the event, President of the DFW branch, Mr. Dolapo Ajayi, said the initiative was designed to reward academic excellence and ease the financial burden on deserving students.
According to Ajayi, each beneficiary received N200,000 as a non-refundable grant, aimed at supporting their essential needs such as tuition and accommodation, thereby allowing students to focus fully on their studies.
“This scholarship is not a loan. It is our way of supporting students who have demonstrated excellence and resilience, so they are not distracted by financial challenges,” he said.
Ajayi explained that the Dallas Scholars Initiative began in 2024 with 52 awardees, was expanded to 104 beneficiaries in 2025, and has been sustained at the same level in 2026.
He noted that the scheme is structured to support students throughout their academic stay, provided they continue to meet the required criteria.
Of the 104 scholarships awarded this year, 80 were renewed for existing scholars, while 24 new students were admitted into the scheme following the graduation of some earlier beneficiaries.
He further disclosed that the selection process is handled solely by the association’s scholarship committee with Mrs. Bunmi Adejuyigbe as head of the Internet and Mr. Tokunbo Adejuyigbe as head of planning committee. He noted that the committee is independent of the university administration.
“We receive thousands of applications every year. Applicants submit a statement of purpose, academic records including CGPA, résumé, and other supporting documents. The process is rigorous, competitive, and objective, and we even leverage technology, including AI, to ensure fairness,” Ajayi added.
On her part, the acting Director of the Advancement Office of OAU, Dr Mrs. Adeduntan Segun-Olasanmi described the initiative as a reflection of the Alumni’s enduring commitment to their alma mater.
She revealed that with the latest awards, the Dallas-Fort Worth branch has now funded 260 scholarships within three years, representing an investment of nearly N50 million in student development.
“These Alumni have needs of their own, yet they continue to give back. This scholarship has transformed the lives of many beneficiaries. Several scholars have graduated top of their classes, won departmental and faculty awards, and even secured international research collaborations,” she said.
The director praised the consistency of the initiative, noting that the university remains grateful for the sustained support.
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In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Prof Adebayo Bamire commended the Alumni for their generosity, describing the scholarship as a major contributor to students’ academic stability and performance.
“The relief provided by this scholarship allows students to concentrate fully on their studies.
“We can clearly see the connection between financial support and academic excellence,” the VC said.
He assured the Alumni that the university would continue to track the academic progress and achievements of beneficiaries to measure the long-term impact of the initiative.
One of the beneficiaries, Miracle Oyetoro, a student of the Faculty of Agriculture, described the scholarship as a turning point in her academic and personal journey.
Oyetoro likened her experience to the biblical story of Joseph, noting that her path to purpose had not been smooth despite her strong sense of calling.
“When we think of destiny, we often imagine a straight line from a dream to reality, but my journey has been anything but straight,” she said.
She explained that her decision to study Agriculture was driven by a deep personal conviction rather than prestige, adding that she later discovered that purpose does not shield one from hardship.
“Being on the path of divine direction does not exempt one from ordeals. Like Joseph, I faced seasons where the vision became blurry and personal struggles made me question my journey,” Oyetoro stated.
According to her, the Dallas Scholars award came at a moment when hope seemed distant, serving as both financial relief and emotional reassurance.
“This scholarship is more than financial support to me. It is a signal — a reminder that when God orders a journey, He also provides the resources for it. It reassures me that I am exactly where I am supposed to be,” she said.
She added that the award had renewed her motivation and inspired her to encourage fellow scholars who may be facing difficulties on their path to success.
