Chairman, Editorial Board of The Guardian and former vice-chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Adebowale Omole, yesterday, launched “The Wale Omole Foundation for Virtues and Ethics in Yoruba Culture” to promote ethical standards within the society, especially among the Yoruba people.

He said that the Foundation aims to provide access to quality education, support community development initiatives, as well as preserve and promote Yoruba cultural heritage.

According to him, the Foundation will support educational initiatives, improve educational infrastructure, provide scholarships, and support teacher training programmes.
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Omole, who emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural heritage, citing its role in fostering unity and identity, said: “Today marks a significant milestone in a journey that began over 40 years ago. The Foundation is not just a dream realised, it is also the culmination of decades of dedication, passion and relentless pursuit of a vision to make a meaningful difference in the society.

“From the very beginning, my life has been guided by a deep sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to uplift and empower communities.

“Over the past four decades, I have dedicated myself to education, community development, and the promotion of cultural heritage. I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of education in changing lives and breaking the cycle of poverty.

“I have seen how community development initiatives can create sustainable livelihoods and foster a sense of pride and belonging. And I have experienced the profound impact of preserving and promoting rich cultural heritage, which serves as a beacon of identity and unity.”

He further said: “It is this God-given wealth of experience and unwavering dedication that is the cornerstone of the Foundation.

“Our mission is to create a brighter and more equitable future for all by focusing on education, community development, and cultural preservation. We believe that education is the cornerstone of progress.
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“We will also empower people through sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and access to essential services.

“The Foundation will work to preserve and promote Yoruba culture through cultural festivals, heritage preservation projects, and promotion of indigenous arts and crafts.”

Meanwhile, Babatunde Olowu, who spoke at the event, noted Omole’s remarkable life journey and commitment to transforming lives.

Olowu reiterated the Foundation’s mission to empower local farmers, provide quality education and scholarships, and bridge the gap in access to quality healthcare.

Some of the personalities at the event included former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba; Publisher of The Guardian, Maiden Alex- Ibru; representative of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Gbenga Fasiku; former Managing Director of First Bank, Jacobs Ajekigbe and former Chairman of Ecobank, John Opeyemi, among other dignitaries.
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