Emmanuel’s Table, an initiative of the Prayer Network, has held its scholarship and empowerment programme, at University of Lagos. The event brought together students, volunteers, partners, and members for a day of teachings, prayers, and presentation of scholarships.
Convener, Oluwatobi Boshoro, said this year’s scholarship covers students’ fees, departmental and faculty registrations, utility charges and hostel accommodation. Beneficiaries are to receive a one-time stipend of N25,000. The organisers said the sponsorship will continue until graduation for those with CGPA of 3.5.
Students will also access job opportunities. One of the organisation’s partners has offered paid internships and possible full-time roles for graduates. In addition, beneficiaries may also intern with an event-planning company, where they can earn N50,000 per event, with possibility of a full-time job after graduation.
Delivering the keynote on “The Mind of Christ,” Pastor Oyinkan Bazuaye of RCCG The Oasis, spoke about how her encounter with Jesus Christ shaped her life and worldview.
Board member, Itohan Iyalla, described Emmanuel’s Table as “a seed sown by God,” to express the love of Jesus Christ through practical support.
She noted that the initiative, in its eighth year, has supported many.
She said Emmanuel’s Table also supports women in business, families in need, and orphaned children, and provides grants for women entrepreneurs as well as food programme for vulnerable households. Iyalla said Emmanuel’s Table has “established itself globally”, and is expanding beyond Nigeria.
Beneficiaries share their gratitude. Ajayi Mary said: ‘The support will help her pay fees and meet needs. She encouraged others to visit the counselling unit to learn about similar opportunities.’
Adesanya Oluwadamilola, a 300-level Mass Communication student, said she heard about the scholarship through a friend in the counselling unit. “It has been very impactful. Beyond the grant and scholarship, I have learnt a lot from the life stories shared today,” she said. ‘She added that she plans to maintain strong academic performance to make the most of the opportunity.’
Another recipient, Eletome Godwin, said the scholarship would ease his financial burden and help him concentrate on his studies. “Many people applied and didn’t make the list. It is not by our power,” he said, encouraging other students to keep praying and trusting God.
Iyalla noted that Emmanuel’s Table is funded by individual donors who prefer to remain anonymous. She said the organisation’s credibility has continued to attract donors from all walks of life, allowing the programme to grow each year.
