By Olaoye Oyewole
In a remarkable gesture of recognition and appreciation, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has awarded a Masters Degree scholarship to Miss Olayinka Olajide, Nigeria’s sprinter and representative at the 2023 All African Games in Accra, Ghana.
The announcement came from the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, during a special ceremony held in his Office to honour Miss Olajide’s outstanding achievements.
Recognising her as the Second Best Sprinter in Africa and the Best Sprinter in Nigeria, Prof. Kehinde noted the significance of Miss Olajide’s contributions in bringing glory to FUNAAB on a continental scale.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Kehinde emphasised Miss Olajide’s exceptional commitment and resilience in balancing her athletic pursuits with academic excellence.
He lauded her for exemplifying the University’s values, while encouraging her to persevere in her academic journey.
The Sports Director, Dr. Samuel Olabanji on his part, commended Miss Olajide’s coach, Mr. Lekan Ajibote, for his unwavering dedication, and expressed gratitude to the University Management for their forward-thinking decision to award Miss Olajide with such a prestigious scholarship.
He affirmed FUNAAB’s commitment to nurturing talents and projecting the University’s prowess on the global stage through sports.
In her response, Miss Olajide popularly known as “AJ Gold,” expressed her surprise and gratitude for the scholarship, describing it as a testament to FUNAAB’s unwavering support for student-athletes.
She admonished her peers to actively engage with their academic pursuits, highlighting the importance of enthusiasm in achieving success both on and off the field.
Miss Olajide’s remarkable achievements included securing podium finishes in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and the 4×100 meters relay race at various international competitions, including the World Junior Athletic Championship in Nairobi, Kenya.
Miss Olajide, a recent graduate of the Department of Chemistry, College of Physical Sciences (COLPHYS), represented Nigeria in the All African Games, Accra Ghana, where she won a Bronze Medal in 100 metres, a Silver Medal in 200 metres, and a Gold Medal in 4×100-metres relay race.
