The Francis and Fidelia Ibhawoh Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to education and youth empowerment with the successful hosting of its annual Award Presentation Ceremony on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Benin City.

This year’s event honoured two outstanding law students with scholarship prizes of ₦100,000 each.

The recipients were Favour Obaseki, a 300-level Law student at Ambrose Alli University, and Itohan Osemwegie, a 400-level Law student at the University of Benin.

Both were recognized for their exceptional academic performance and dedication to personal growth.

The ceremony attracted members of the Foundation’s Governing Board, respected figures from the academic and legal sectors, and other invited dignitaries.

 Delivering his remarks, Mr. Gerard Ibhawoh, Chair of the Foundation, congratulated the scholars and encouraged them to maintain their pursuit of excellence and integrity.

“Keep the flag flying,” he said. “Let this recognition be a steppingstone in your journey toward becoming change-makers in your professions and communities.”

Ibhawoh also highlighted the Foundation’s recent collaboration with the Community Sport and Development (CSED) Initiative.

The partnership has led to the successful delivery of netball and badminton workshops aimed at training teachers and students in several Edo State schools—a step toward holistic youth development through both academics and sports.

However, the Foundation Chair noted a reduced number of awardees this year, citing a decline in the quality of essay submissions. He expressed concern about the misuse of artificial intelligence tools by some applicants.

“While technology is a valuable aid, an overreliance on AI in academic work undermines original thinking and poses a real threat to authentic scholarship,” he warned.

Also speaking at the event, Prof. (Mrs.) Uyilawa Edosomwan, a member of the Foundation’s Governing Board, encouraged the recipients to see the award as a launchpad for future achievements.

“Let this moment inspire you toward even greater milestones in your academic and professional journey,” she said.

Since its inception in 2015, the Francis and Fidelia Ibhawoh Foundation has impacted over 321 students through scholarships and educational grants, while also empowering 185 individuals through mentorship, vocational training, international exchanges, and professional development programs.

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