Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing education by awarding bursaries to 56 students from 18 communities surrounding its operations in Ovia South-West, Ovia North-East, and Uhunmwonde Local Government Areas. The bursaries, which are for the 2024/2025 academic session, reflect the company’s increased support for education in these regions.
Speaking in a statement on Tuesday, the company’s Managing Director, Graham Hefer, represented by Industrial Coordinator Leonit Shaji, announced that the number of bursary beneficiaries had risen from 46 in 2023 to 56 in 2024. Additionally, the bursary amount was increased from ₦110,000 to ₦150,000 per student to better address their academic needs.
“As a company, we recognize the importance of education in advancing any society and the need to contribute our quota to indigenous students from neighbouring communities in our plantations. Hence, the introduction of the bursary scheme,” Hefer said.
Despite prevailing economic challenges, the company has sustained and expanded its educational support. Hefer encouraged beneficiaries to remain focused on their studies and avoid social vices such as drug abuse and cultism, urging them to be positive representatives of their communities and the company.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude, acknowledging the significant impact the bursaries would have on their academic aspirations. They praised Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc for its consistent investment in education and community development.
### Focus on Community Engagement
In addition to its bursary scheme, Okomu Oil Palm Company held its second bi-annual community training session. The event, which centered on fostering growth through effective communication, brought together community leaders and stakeholders.
Guest speaker Innocent Eguasa, a lecturer at Igbinedion University Okada, emphasized the importance of understanding the unique needs of both the company and its host communities to achieve sustainable development.
Community leaders, including Enoch Sulubor, Ifaluyi Efionayi, and Alfred Osifo, lauded Okomu Oil Palm Company for its commitment to community growth and pledged their continued support for the company’s initiatives.
This dual approach of education support and active community engagement underscores Okomu Oil Palm Company’s dedication to building lasting relationships with its host communities while fostering development and sustainability.
