By DADA AYOKHAI
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‎BENIN CITY – Apparently awed by the recent performance of 16-year-old Ephraim Oshawo, the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, hosted the child prodigy in his office in Benin to convey the state government’s pleasure at the honour he bestowed on the state
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‎16-year-old Oshawo Ephraim from Iyora Uzairue kingdom, Etsako West LGA scored 368, coming behind Afolabi Ayodeji, a 15-year-old student from Icons Comprehensive College in Ijapo Estate, Akure, Ondo State, who scored 370 out of 400 maximum marks obtainable, setting a landmark record in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result.
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‎Oshawo, the wonder boy who has suddenly gained national attention, was accompanied during the visit by his parent
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‎The commissioner praised his diligence and brilliance, noting his feat in the UTME exam brought honour and glory to the state, and hoped that others would emulate him
‎As a token of his appreciation, the commissioner donated the sum of three hundred thousand naira to assist in his education, promising also that the state government would monitor his academic progress and step in whenever there is the need to do so.
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‎ Dr. Iyamu reiterated the state government’s readiness to support and promote academic excellence, emphasising that any academic achievement by an Edo student will not go unnoticed or unrewarded.
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‎He also stressed that the 16-year-old Oshawo has set a precedent, adding that it is important for others to follow his example.
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‎He further stressed that the state government is fully committed to supporting the academic talents from the state and urged them to imbibe the virtues of hard work, discipline, and diligence
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‎In response, a thrilled Oshawo expressed his deep gratitude for the recognition and mentioned his intention to study Computer Science at the University of Lagos.