Hard work, perseverance, and a thirst for knowledge have paid off for James Ojo Allen, a recipient of the Bedrock Scholarship, who has been recognized as the best graduating student of the University of Benin at the combined 49th & 50th Convocation Ceremony which held on 22nd November, 2024.

The Petroleum Engineering graduate not only topped the academic session with an impressive CGPA of 4.98/5.0 but an unconfirmed report has it that his CGPA is the highest any graduate of the University has ever achieved since the establishment of the institution in 1970.

Awarded the Bedrock Scholarship in 2022, the funding and mentorship program proved to be helpful in Allen's academic career. In addition to academic excellence, Allen stood out as a leader and innovator on campus. He was; Programs Team Lead, Energy Club, University of Benin Chapter; SPE President, Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uniben student chapter; President, Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Benin, and Founder, Goal Getters Forum.

The Bedrock Human Development Foundation (BHDF), which has supported hundreds of students since its inception, expressed pride in Allen's achievements. "This is what we strive for; enabling young leaders to reach their potential and impact the world. Also, it's fulfilling for us at BHDF that for the second year running, Bedrock Scholars have emerged as the best graduating students at the University of Benin. A total of twenty four Bedrock Foundation scholars graduated with ten first class and fourteen second class upper." said Engr (Dr) Osa Owieadolor, Bedrock Foundation Chairman & Founder.

While congratulating Allen on his achievement, the foundation also rewarded him with the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.