OSF Celebrates Second Year of Empowering Deaf Scholars in Nigeria; Awards Twenty-Five Scholarships and Two Fellowships

September 15, 2024 — The Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation (OSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the leadership potential of Nigeria’s Deaf community has announced the recipients of its scholarship program for the 2024 academic year.

Established in 2022, the Foundation is committed in breaking down barriers and empowering Deaf individuals through education, mentorship, and advocacy.

The Foundation’s unwavering belief in the exceptional leadership capabilities of Nigeria’s Deaf community is the driving force behind its commitment to providing scholarships to deserving individuals who face financial challenges in pursuing higher education.

The Foundation is thrilled to support an outstanding group of scholars this year, each embodying exceptional quality, inspiring hope for a brighter future.

The 2024 OSF Scholars are listed below:

1. Abdulhamid Abubakar – Taraba State University, Jalingo
2. Adda’u Umar Wakili – Bayero University
3. Adedayo Oluwasegun – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
4. Adeyamo Rokibat Adeola – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
5. Ajah Okechukwu Itumo – University of Calabar
6. Aniekpeno Amama – University of Calabar
7. Atilola Modupeola – Lagos State University
8. Bartholomew Bondo – University of Jos, Plateau State
9. Bello Yusuf Maiglass – Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina
10. Boluwatife Makanjuola – University of Ilorin
11. Boluwatife Opaleke – Kwara State University, Malete
12. Chimenem Dike – Ignatius Ajuru University of Education
13. Eno Joseph Asuquo – Ignatius Ajuru University of Education
14. Eunice Iriemi – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
15. Fatima Aliyu – University of Ilorin
16. Godspower Irem – University of Calabar
17. Goodluck Ukpaka – Kwara State University, Malete
18. Idara Essien – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
19. John Jerry – Federal College of Education Pankshin / University of Jos
20. Matthew Favour – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
21. Olamide Lawal – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
22. Oluwapelumi Oyejola – Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo
23. Tijjani Adamu – Federal University Dutsinma, Katsina State
24. Zainab Abubakar – Federal University of Lafia
25. Zulkifil Aminu – Bayero University

The Konyinsola Ajayi Fellowship

The Konyinsola Ajayi Fellowship is given to Law students with a disability studying in Nigeria who break barriers, lead boldly, create change, redefine narratives, and transform society for the better. OSF is giving the Konyinsola Ajayi Fellowship award to two outstanding law students with a disability who have excelled academically and demonstrated altruistic leadership and an unwavering commitment to positively impacting society. The 2024 fellows are:

1. Awwal Kamaldeen – University of Ilorin

2. Nehemiah Danjuma – University of Ilorin

“The Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation is honored to continue supporting these exceptional scholars and fellows who embody resilience, determination, and the potential to lead,” said Dr. Opeoluwa Sotonwa, Founder of the Foundation. “Through our scholarship program and holistic support, we aim to create pathways for Deaf individuals to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to society.”

The Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing Deaf leadership through mentorship and advocacy initiatives that promote inclusivity and equality in education. Our programs have already made a significant impact, with many of our past scholars and fellows going on to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

For more information about the Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation and its programs, visit
opeoluwasotonwafoundation.org

About Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation:

Founded in 2022, the Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to unlocking the leadership potential within Nigeria’s Deaf community. Our mission is to empower Deaf individuals through scholarships, mentorship programs, and advocacy, fostering a future where Deaf individuals are recognized for their abilities and contributions. We believe that by providing opportunities for higher education and nurturing leadership skills, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society.