Amos Ishaku, a remarkable First Class graduate who hails from an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Uhorgua, Edo, has been awarded a fully-funded PhD scholarship by the University of Illinois, Chicago, USA.

Amos achieved his outstanding academic feat in November 2023, earning a First Class degree in Chemical Engineering from Edo State University, Uzaire. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, the camp’s Coordinator, Mr. Solomon Folorunsho, expressed his delight, emphasizing how creating a supportive environment for those in need can yield remarkable results.

The camp, managed by Home for the Needy Foundation, has been a crucial support system in facilitating the educational pursuits of its residents. Folorunsho revealed that the camp has seen numerous success stories, with over 200 individuals currently studying at various universities and another 150 in the process of securing university admissions.

Ishaku’s academic achievements have been nothing short of exceptional. In addition to graduating with first-class honors, he was recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Best Graduating Student, 2023 award,

The Mike Ozekhome award for overall best-graduating student, and the Best Student award in the Department of Chemical Engineering. Furthermore, he received accolades for being the Best Student in Entrepreneurship and the Faculty of Engineering.

As Ishaku prepares to commence his PhD studies at the University of Illinois, Chicago later this month, his success serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the invaluable support provided by the camp and its benefactors.

His remarkable journey from an IDP camp to international academic recognition is a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the potential for determination and support to positively impact the lives of those facing adversity. Ishaku’s achievement highlights the importance of creating enabling environments for underserved communities and the transformative power of education in breaking barriers and amplifying potential.