By: Manoah Kikekon
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Ajande Pascal Initiative, in collaboration with Real Acts of Kindness RAK Development Foundation, has honoured outstanding Badagry students in just concluded JAMB/UTME and first class graduates from Lagos State University Ojo.
At the event on Saturday, June 22, 2024, held at the Badagry Youth Centre, Badagry, Lagos State, where a laptop computer was presented to Ajose Samuel Pendo, a Badagry indigen, who scored 297, the highest score in JAMB in the area. Awards and cash prizes were also presented to the first class graduates.
Ten students were awarded cash prizes for their excellent performance in the UTME exams. Additionally, six students from Lagos State University (LASU) received awards and cash prizes for achieving first-class honours at the institution's recent convocation.
Mr. Ajande Pascal, pioneer of the Ajande Pascal Initiative, expressed his appreciation to the students and guests for their attendance. He stated that, "the initiative was birthed out of the quest to celebrate excellence among students from Badagry federation. Adding that, the youths in the area should see this as a challenge to perform better in their academic pursuits.
Dr. Sewhude Akande, CEO of CityMood Communications, addressed all prospective undergraduates present at the event, said, "University life is filled with universal ideas, opportunities, and challenges. Urging the students to consider excelling from their first day on campus, cultivate quality relationships, and focus on their long-term goals.
Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, pioneer of RAK Development Foundation and the commissioner for youth and social development, commended the initiative. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by parents and highlighted that "there is no shortcut to the top," stressing the need to be disciplined.
Ogunlende said, while higher education offers freedom, it also brings potential pitfalls if not managed properly. He therefore advised students to stay close to God, noting that many distractions will come their way and that only faith can help them remain steadfast.
"The only thing we can do is encourage these kids, making sure they are motivated to do bigger and better. I'm not here only as the commissioner but also to encourage my brothers and sisters so that they can continue to excel, as this will likewise make Badagry excel," he added.
Special recognition was given to Miss Hunpe Christiwedo Josephine, a debater and recent secondary school graduate, for her outstanding performance.