For many individuals with disabilities, access to quality education can be a distant dream, often hindered by financial constraints and societal barriers. On November 16th, 2024, Kiitan Foundation transformed that dream into reality for nine determined young scholars. With a scholarship initiative, the foundation not only alleviated the burden of school fees but also reignited the hope and potential within these students.
The scholarship flag-off ceremony took place at the foundation’s premises, bringing together the beneficiaries, their parents, and key figures from JONAPWD. Among the notable attendees were Mrs. Omotola Elizabeth Isola, JONAPWD Women Coordinator for Osun State; Adeyemi Mutairu Alapa, Ede Zonal Coordinator; Mr. Oladeji Mobolaji Johnson, Ede Zonal Secretary; and Mr. Akeeb Abubakar, Proprietor of Diligent Academy.
The scholarship program is designed to support each beneficiary through their current educational phase, whether that’s from kindergarten to primary school, junior secondary to senior secondary school, or senior secondary school to completion. This ensures that these students, who may have otherwise faced significant financial barriers, have a chance to focus on their education without the constant worry of school fees. For instance, Ibrahim Fatimoh, a 21-year-old living with albinism, received support to complete her WAEC registration. Azeez Aliu, an 18-year-old student with hearing and speech impairments, now has his tuition covered through senior secondary school. Similarly, three-year-old Wakeel Mustapha, who faces physical challenges, can now look forward to a steady educational path from kindergarten through primary school, thanks to the foundation’s intervention.
The scholarship initiative not only provides financial assistance but also fosters a sense of inclusion and hope for families who often face societal neglect. Parents and JONAPWD executives expressed their heartfelt gratitude for this life-changing opportunity. They acknowledged the organization’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for persons with disabilities and pledged their commitment to supporting their children’s academic success.
This initiative highlights the importance of community-driven solutions to bridge educational gaps for vulnerable groups. By offering these scholarships, we are not only changing individual lives but also making a lasting impact on the broader community.
As the ceremony concluded, the air was filled with words of appreciation, smiles, and renewed determination. The beneficiaries and their families left with financial support, hope, encouragement, and the knowledge that they are not alone in their journey as we remain steadfast in our mission to empower the less privileged, one life at a time, and committed to seeing these young scholars thrive and achieve their dreams.
Our organisation has always placed a high importance in education and supporting the underserved individuals in our communities, we do not judge or discriminate their backgrounds and hope that you can join us too. We implore you to make a stand by taking this walk with us in assisting these individuals who need our support, please visit kiitanfoundation.org/get-involved to see how you can come in, we would be delighted to have you support us.
Check out photos from the event below:
