Yesterday, Mechanical Engineering students from Kwara State Polytechnic were officially inducted into NIMechE. The event unfolded in the halls of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, where Kehinde Popoola, a standout inductee, seized the moment to express profound gratitude to the former Commissioner for Works, Hon. Rotimi Illiasu. His unwavering financial and paternal support played a pivotal role in shaping Kehinde’s remarkable educational and personal achievements.
Kehinde, an inspiring figure among the newly inducted NIMechE members, recounted her unique journey, narrating how Hon. Rotimi became a transformative force in her life. In 2018, a viral video captured her immersed in the demanding work of a mechanic at her learning institution.
Channels TV later featured her story, portraying an 18-year-old girl with resolute determination to become a mechanical engineer, driven by the ambition to fund her secondary school fees and support her family. Kehinde commenced her journey as an apprentice at a forklift mechanic workshop.
In an illuminating interview with Channels, Kehinde shared, “Wherever I worked, people were amazed, as they rarely witnessed a girl excelling in this type of work, especially at my age. I’ve been shadowing my father in his workshop since childhood. One day, he asked me which trade I’d like to learn, and I expressed my desire to be a mechanic like him, focusing on repairing diesel generators. This decision was made in SS1, and my father facilitated my entry into the workshop in SS2. The video that went viral was filmed by a passerby who was captivated by my work. He inquired about my ambition, and I affirmed my goal to study mechanical engineering. Despite promises from many to support my career, only Hon. Rotimi Illiasu stood by his commitment, sponsoring my education since then.”
Expressing her deep gratitude, Kehinde stated, “I am profoundly grateful to him for the opportunities he has provided, and I pledge to reciprocate his efforts manifold.”
Hon. Rotimi Illiasu’s steadfast support has not only propelled Kehinde’s educational journey but has become a testament to the transformative impact of mentorship and sponsorship in shaping the future of aspiring individuals. Kehinde Popoola’s story stands as an inspiring narrative of resilience, ambition, and the power of genuine support.