Two young Nigerians from the Makoko community in Lagos have achieved a remarkable feat by graduating with First-Class Honours from Benson Idahosa University. Sisianu Melawakou and Oseni received scholarships through Slum2School Africa, highlighting the impact of educational support programmes in helping children from underserved communities overcome barriers and achieve their goals. Melawakou graduated with a BSc in Mass Communication, while Oseni graduated as the second-best graduating student with a 4.89 CGPA.
Melawakou's journey into formal education began in 2012 when Slum2School Africa enrolled her in school at the age of eight. She faced several challenges during her education, including pressure that almost forced her to leave school early. However, she continued her studies and later earned a university scholarship through Slum2School's partnership with Benson Idahosa University. Melawakou's university journey was not only about academics but also about leadership, volunteering, and personal growth.
Oseni's journey was also shaped by technology. He joined Slum2School's digital learning programme in 2018 and became one of the organisation's top learners. Although Slum2School encouraged him to study Computer Science, his final year came with a painful setback after he lost his mother and nearly abandoned his studies. Despite this, Oseni persevered and graduated with First-Class Honours as the second-best graduating student.
The founder of Slum2School Africa, Otto Orondaam, reflected on the significance of Melawakou and Oseni's achievements. He said, "When we believe in a child, invest in their dreams and give them the opportunity to thrive, we don't just transform one life; we change the future of entire families, communities and generations." Orondaam added that Melawakou was one of the children whose struggles inspired him to leave his job in 2011 and establish the initiative.
Melawakou and Oseni's success stories demonstrate the transformative power of educational opportunities. They attended Word of Faith Secondary School before receiving scholarships that helped them complete their university education. Both graduates have already started building careers in their chosen fields, with Melawakou pursuing journalism and reporting, while Oseni has gained experience in technology and product management.
Oseni graduated with a 4.89 CGPA, despite facing personal loss during his final year. He has since gained professional experience in technology and product management, including roles as a Product Management Intern and ICT/Public Relations Intern. Melawakou and Oseni's achievements serve as examples of how education can change the direction of a person's life.
The stories of Melawakou and Oseni have become beacons of hope for children from underserved communities. Their journey from growing up in one of Lagos' most recognised underserved communities to graduating among the best students at university is a testament to the impact of education support programmes. As they begin their careers, Melawakou and Oseni are an inspiration to others who face similar challenges.
Key points
- Educational support programmes can help children from underserved communities overcome barriers and achieve their goals.
- Two Makoko scholars, Sisianu Melawakou and Oseni, graduated with First-Class Honours from Benson Idahosa University.
- The graduates' success stories demonstrate the transformative power of educational opportunities in changing the direction of a person's life.
