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By Akpan David, Calabar
Parents and communities in Cross River State have been called upon to encourage tjrie children to show in interest in and study agronomy in higher institutions.
Owners of palm oil plantations in Cross River State, PZ Wilmar Nigeria, a joint venture focused on revitalising the Nigeria’s palm oil industry, made the call when they awarded 58 undergraduate scholarships to several nigerian universities.
But they raised concerns over the declining interest of students in agricultural studies.
Speaking at the 2025 edition of the Wilmar Scholarship Award Ceremony held in Akamkpa, Cross River State, the General Manager, Mr. Vijaya Ananth, called on youths in host communities to take a greater interest in agriculture-related courses.
The event marked the 12th edition of the scholarship initiative.
Mr. Ananth encouraged parents in the Akamkpa communities to motivate their children to study agronomy at the university level, noting that such training would enable them to contribute meaningfully to the company and the agricultural sector in the future.
He emphasized that the scholarship award is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, designed to promote local development and build capacity by granting access to quality education for youths in the host communities.
“The scholarship covers full tuition and includes a bursary of ₦50,000 to support the purchase of books and academic materials,” he noted.
“To date, no fewer than 450 students have benefited from this initiative.
Among them, 40% are studying engineering, 25% medical sciences, 9% management sciences, and only 7% are in agriculture.”
Mr. Ananth also highlighted the company’s contribution to education infrastructure in the region, including the establishment of two primary and secondary schools to meet the needs of the communities.
Remarking, the Commissioner for Education, Senator Steven Odey, commended the company for its continued commitment to education.
He urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and called on the firm to sustain and even expand the programme.
“You are assured of the state government’s support,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Okon Owuna, Member representing Akamkpa I Constituency in the State House of Assembly, lauded PZ Wilmar for its CSR efforts and suggested further expansion of the scholarship scheme to reach more students.
“Consider introducing additional initiatives to support the wellbeing of the people,” he said.
The Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, His Royal Majesty Obhot Agbor Ewa, addressed the 58 new scholarship recipients, urging them to view the award as a stepping stone to greater achievements.
“You must see this scholarship as an opportunity to prepare for the future,” he advised.
“Don’t joke with it, don’t abuse it; and don’t allow us to regret choosing you.”
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