The Stephen Oluwole Awokoya Foundation for Science Foundation is a charitable, non-profit making organization with a primary objective of promoting science education in Nigerian institutions of higher learning.
Awokoya Foundation was an honourarium founded by his children in memory of their Father who was a passionate scientist, to promote science education in the country through the award of scholarships to graduates who are desirous of undertaking postgraduate studies.
The foundation was established in 1995 and has since given out yearly awards of postgraduate studies in their area of focus of which a total of 98 scholars have been beneficiaries as of March 2017.
The mode of qualification is best graduating students of nominated public and private tertiary institutions across the country. This year 2020, scholarship beneficiaries were 10 graduates from different institutions across Nigeria.
The scholarships were presented during the 25th annual lecture of the foundation which held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, a member of the Board of Trustees of the foundation, Dr Fola Awokoya reiterated the vision of the foundation. He added that, the foundation has awarded 130 postgraduates scholarship since its inception 25years ago. He further elaborated that the award is renewable each year for a maximum of 3years provided awardees maintain good academic performances attested to by authorities of the university. The exception to this is for students who desire to have their studies in a foreign university, scholarship in that regard only covers a year for travel expenses.
Chairman of the event, Dr Chamberlain Oyibo persuaded Nigerians to assist in awarding more scholarships as its impact would constitute growth and economic development of the country. In his concluding speech, he applauded the children of the Late Icon for running with a great vision over the years.
Three eminent Nigerians were honoured by the foundation during the event as well. They are Prof. Lawrence Ekpebu, Dr Layo Fatona and Mrs Catherine Uju Ifejika.