In a remarkable show of commitment to youth development and educational advancement, the Kunle Awotiku Foundation, under the visionary leadership of its Chairman, Amb. Dr. Kunle Awotiku who also serves as the Director of Strategy to Oyo state house of assembly member representing ibadan North Constituency 1, Hon. Olufunke Comforter Olajide has partnered with the SERVICOM and Gender Community Development Service (CDS) group of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Oyo State to execute a multi-faceted empowerment initiative.
The program, which strategically targeted both secondary school students and corps members, was designed to enhance intellectual engagement, reward academic excellence, and promote self-reliance among Nigerian youth.
The first phase of the initiative featured an Essay and Debate Competition that brought together students from eight different secondary schools across the state.
The competition, which provided a platform for young minds to showcase their eloquence, critical thinking, and creativity, was not only a celebration of academic potential but also an avenue for mentorship and talent discovery.
Through the financial and logistical support of the Kunle Awotiku Foundation, winners of the competition received valuable gift items, while outstanding participants were selected for advanced training in public speaking and creative writing at no cost to them.
In a heartwarming gesture that underscores his passion for educational development, Amb. Dr. Awotiku personally championed the establishment of an education support fund for one of the participating students in the debate segment, whom he described as “a shining star with a promising future.”
The Foundation’s influence also extended to the NYSC Orientation Camp, where it sponsored a highly engaging Lecture Summary Competition.
Corps members who secured the top three positions were awarded generous cash prizes in recognition of their academic brilliance and presentation skills.
In a unique blend of health and empowerment, ten corps members received specialized slimming supplements, courtesy of the Foundation, and were enrolled in a structured weight loss program.
This health initiative was designed not only to improve physical well-being but also to boost the confidence and self-esteem of the beneficiaries.
Moreover, corps members who had acquired entrepreneurial skills through the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program were given further encouragement through the Foundation’s offer of free business name registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), a critical step towards launching their businesses into formal recognition.
Several others received comprehensive training in public speaking, further equipping them for leadership roles in their respective communities.
The corps members, overwhelmed with gratitude and joy, expressed deep appreciation for the uncommon opportunity to benefit from such life-changing interventions during their service year.
Many described the gesture as timely, inspiring, and reflective of true leadership and community development.
Speaking at the event, Amb. Dr. Kunle Awotiku emphasized the Foundation’s enduring commitment to human capital development, especially among youths.
He noted that the success of any nation lies in the hands of its young people and that investing in their education, health, and skills is non-negotiable.
“We believe in building the future today by empowering the minds that will shape tomorrow,” he said.
“Our partnership with NYSC SERVICOM and Gender CDS group is a testament to what can be achieved when private initiatives collaborate with public institutions for the greater good.”
The event has since received accolades from various stakeholders in education and youth development, who lauded the Kunle Awotiku Foundation for its consistency in impacting lives across Oyo State and beyond.
