Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has taken a bold step in promoting academic excellence by awarding N2 million each to three best-graduating students of Gateway Polytechnic, Saapade. The announcement was made during the institution’s 5th combined convocation ceremony held at its auditorium. Represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to fostering quality education in the state.
The recipients, Suliyat Yusuf (2023/2024), Victor Omontuhen (2022/2023), and Theresa Agu (2021/2022), emerged as the top students from their respective sessions. Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Governor Abiodun disclosed that his administration has allocated N200 million to an education trust fund aimed at enhancing infrastructure and academic programs across state-owned tertiary institutions.
Salako-Oyedele conveyed the state government’s determination to equip students with the tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving world. She also expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Adewunmi Onanuga, who was posthumously conferred with a fellowship for her impactful contributions to her constituency.
In his address, the Polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Sanni Oseni, proudly announced that 248 graduates had distinguished themselves with honors. Of these, 80 achieved distinctions at the National Diploma level, while 168 excelled in the Higher National Diploma program. Dr. Oseni charged the graduates to leverage their knowledge and skills as torchbearers of innovation and resilience in their respective fields.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Suliyat Yusuf, who recorded an outstanding 3.91/4.00 Cumulative Grade Point Average, urged her colleagues to embrace challenges with optimism. She encouraged them to apply the values of integrity and compassion in their pursuits while striving to contribute positively to society.