By John Odunayo
A fresh graduate of Federal University Oye Ekiti, Damilare Joshua Oguntoyinbo has won the maiden edition of Dele Odule Prize for the best graduating student in the Department of Theatre and Media Arts in FUOYE.
Oguntoyinbo, who graduated with an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.65, received the award in recognition of his outstanding academic achievements and contribution to the department.
Dele Odule, a renowned Nigerian actor and the President, Theatre Arts and Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria, made the announcement at FUOYE during the groundbreaking EDUTECHMENT ceremony organized by Directorate of Advancement at the University.
The EDUTECHMENT programme, a blend of education, technology and entertainment, organised to inspire students and promote innovation in education, was a resounding success.
Dele Odule, on the occasion, made a generous commitment to provide a prize of N50,000 to the Best Graduating Student in Theatre Arts Department yearly for the next 10 years to further his support and dedication to education and the arts.
This year’s edition of FUOYE EDUTECHMENT featured personalities in the entertainment industry like Femi Adebayo, Pa Peter Fatomilola, Toyin Adegbola, Dele Odule, King Dr Saheed Osupa, Muyideen Oladapo and Peju Ogunmola.
Oguntoyinbo’s feat is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the arts. Throughout his time at FUOYE, he consistently demonstrated exceptional talent, creativity, and leadership skills, distinguishing himself among his peers.
In his acceptance speech, the prize winner, Oguntoyinbo, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the university, the department and Chief Dele Odule for recognizing his efforts.
He said, “I am happy for today. I want to especially appreciate the Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, for providing the enabling environment for excellence in students which allowed me to thrive.
“I also want to thank Chief Dele Odule for this great award. I am so grateful to you Sir. This initiative will spur me to do more in my academic endeavours”.
According to Oguntoyinbo, Chief Odule’s gesture is an inspiration to students and as well highlights the department’s commitment to excellence in arts education.
The Director of FUOYE Advancement Centre, Prof Mrs Olubukola Oyawoye, also thanked Dele Odule for this great gesture.
CONGRATULATIONS to Damilare Joshua Oguntoyinbo on this well-deserved recognition
