The African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) has approved the selection of 45 awardees across its three major grant programmes.

The approval covers the AGNES BAYER Research Grant (IRG) and the AGNES Intra-Africa Mobility Grant (MG), marking another significant milestone in AGNES’ commitment to strengthening scientific research and academic collaboration across Africa.

Among the beneficiaries of the highly competitive 2025 AGNES Intra-Africa Mobility Grant (MG) is Bunmi Bankole, an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Industrial Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ilesa.

Bankole emerged as one of the recipients under the General Category of the Mobility Grant, a recognition that underscores her academic promise and dedication to advancing scientific research.

A statement by the Senior Assistant Registrar, Corporate Service and Information Unit, University of Ilesa, Babatunde Fanawopo described her selection as a major boost not only for her professional development but also for the research profile of the institution.

The AGNES Intra-Africa Mobility Grant is designed to support early-career researchers and lecturers through mobility opportunities that foster research exchange, strengthen institutional partnerships, and promote knowledge-sharing across African universities and research institutions.

According to the statement, the announcement has been received with excitement within the University community, as it reflects the growing recognition of the institution in national and international academic circles. Stakeholders have described the achievement as a testament to the quality of teaching and research being promoted at the University of Ilesa.

Reacting to the development, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Prof. Taiwo Asaolu, congratulated Bankole on her remarkable achievement. He commended her for being highly resourceful, hardworking, and committed to academic excellence, describing her emergence as one of the awardees as well deserved.

Prof. Asaolu noted that the award has brought honour to the University and further affirmed its steady rise as a hub for scientific innovation and intellectual advancement.

He expressed confidence that Bankole would maximally utilize the opportunity provided by the grant to deepen her research capacity and contribute meaningfully to the institution’s academic growth.

He further encouraged other staff members, particularly young academics, to emulate Bankole’s determination by actively pursuing international research opportunities and collaborations that enhance both personal development and institutional visibility.

“With this latest feat, the University of Ilesa continues to position itself as an emerging centre of excellence in science and research.

“The institution has reiterated its commitment to supporting scholars and researchers who are dedicated to breaking new ground in scientific inquiry and contributing to sustainable development across Africa,” the statement reads