The Exceeding Grace Foundation, a non-governmental and philanthropic organization, has renewed its scholarship program for orphans and fatherless children attending private and government-owned nursery and primary schools in Ilare-Ijesa, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State. This initiative is part of the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to support vulnerable children and ensure they have access to quality education.
Building on the success of its inaugural scholarship program launched last year, the Foundation will continue to cover tuition and examination fees for the beneficiaries, as well as provide essential school supplies such as bags, customized exercise books, and writing materials. The recent award ceremony at Atunluse Town Hall in Ilare-Ijesa attracted dignitaries from both government and private sectors, reflecting broad community support for the program.
Pastor Olu-Kehinde Oyedeji, the Founder and National Coordinator of the Foundation and an indigene of Ilare-Ijesa, stated that the program is a way of giving back to his community. He expressed concern over the rising number of orphans and fatherless children left to face life’s challenges alone, urging individuals, political leaders, and religious organizations to join in supporting these children to help them achieve their dreams.
“Our vision extends beyond Ilare-Ijesa; we aim to reach every town and village within the Obokun Local Government Area by 2025,” said Pastor Mike Taiwo Oyedeji, Head of Planning & Operations for the Foundation. “Our goal is to provide free basic education to all orphans and fatherless pupils, and we are determined to make it happen.”
The foundation, now in its second year, has already covered the tuition and examination fees for the upcoming term for all its scholarship recipients. Plans are underway for a team from Abuja to visit Ilare-Ijesa at the start of the new school term to distribute additional educational materials and incentives.
The Foundation emphasized that its mission is not driven by political ambitions but by a divine calling to make a positive impact on the lives of these children. “We are fulfilling God’s mandate through our work, and with His guidance, we are committed to making a significant difference,” the clerics said.
The Foundation extended its gratitude to the Osun State Ministry of Education, the Local Inspectorate of Education (LIE), and the Local Education Authority Board for their support in making this initiative a reality.
Exceeding Grace Foundation is not just a charity; it represents a movement and a beacon of hope, striving to create a better future for orphans and fatherless children in Ilare-Ijesa and beyond.
