AYBA Awards Scholarship to 8 outstanding Students in Auchi

AYBA Awards Scholarships to 8 Outstanding Afemai Students in Auchi

Kadiri, J.E.

Auchi, Edo State

July 26, 2025

In a heartwarming show of support for education and youth empowerment, the Afemai Youth Bay Area (AYBA) on Saturday, July 26, awarded scholarships to eight deserving students from various secondary schools in Edo North. The scholarship award ceremony, held at the Lecky Event Centre in Auchi the Headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State attracted students, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders who gathered to celebrate academic excellence and the prospects of a brighter future.

According to organizers, the selection process for the scholarships was merit-based and highly competitive. Interested students were required to sit for a written examination aimed at assessing their academic potential. Of all the students who participated, only eight emerged with exceptional results, earning them the coveted scholarships.

Speaking at the event, Sir Aruna Zakariyau, the Home Coordinator of AYBA Projects, expressed his excitement and pride in the performance of the winners. He emphasized the importance of education and encouraged the beneficiaries to remain committed to their studies.

“This scholarship is not just financial support. It is a call to action.

"We want our young ones to take their education seriously. If they excel, our sponsors will be motivated to do even more for the community. This is a continuation of AYBA's beginning.” he said.

The families of the scholarship recipients expressed deep gratitude to AYBA, noting that the initiative was timely, particularly given the current economic challenges in the country. Many parents described the opportunity as a "huge relief" and a "stepping stone" for their children's educational journey.

“We are so thankful to AYBA. With the way things are now, this scholarship has lifted a big burden off our shoulders. My daughter worked hard, and seeing that hard work recognized is truly special.” said a mother of a beneficiary.

Teachers of the selected students were also full of praise, highlighting how the initiative had inspired healthy academic competition among students.

“This has raised the bar in our schools. It shows that excellence is noticed and rewarded. We hope other organizations will emulate AYBA’s gesture.” said one of the attending teachers.

The eight recipients, visibly excited and proud, promised to make the most of the opportunity. They pledged to continue striving for excellence in their academics and serve as role models for their peers.

“I feel very proud and motivated. This has given me more reason to study harder and aim higher. I won’t take it for granted.” said Zikra Abdullai, a beneficiary.

AYBA reiterated its commitment to fostering education and youth development in Afemai land, stating that the scholarship program is part of a broader effort to build capacity, reduce educational inequality, and empower the next generation of leaders.

“The goal of AYBA is to ensure a future where no talented child is left behind because of financial constraints. This is a long-term investment in our community.” Aruna Zakariyau added.

As the ceremony ended on a high note, attendees were left with a renewed sense of hope, unity, and inspiration, all driven by the powerful message that hard work and excellence still open doors even in challenging times.