By Mercy Aikoye
Federal lawmaker Busayo Oluwole Oke has expanded his technical education scholarship scheme to 420 new beneficiaries in Osun State. The programme now reaches 1,500 students, with the lawmaker committing ₦40 million per academic session.
The scholarship covers school fees, enrolment charges, lesson fees, and related expenses. According to Oke, “Technical and vocational education remains one of the most reliable pathways to empowering young people.” The programme aims to address Nigeria’s widening skills gap and rising youth unemployment.
Oke said, “By equipping them with practical abilities and creativity-driven training, we are not only reducing unemployment but also building a new generation of self-reliant Nigerians.” The programme has enabled graduates to progress to higher institutions or establish small enterprises.
The initiative has become a model for community-driven support in technical and vocational training. Stakeholders are studying its structure for possible replication. Oke’s commitment to the programme is evident in his investment of roughly ₦15 million per term.
Administrators at the technical colleges attribute increased enrolment and graduation rates to Oke’s intervention. The lawmaker’s scholarship scheme has made a significant impact on the students and the community.
Oke urged students to take advantage of the opportunity, describing the investment as a commitment to building “a better, brighter and more empowered generation.” The programme aligns with the Federal Government’s recent decision to introduce free tuition in all Federal Technical Colleges nationwide.
The lawmaker’s advocacy for stronger investment in vocational education has aligned with the Federal Government’s policy. This move is expected to further boost the growth of technical education in Nigeria.
The expansion of Oke’s scholarship scheme is a testament to his commitment to empowering young people in Osun State. As the programme continues to grow, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the community and the nation at large.
