The Catholic Chaplaincy of Our Lady of Perpetual Light, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has launched/established a Student Welfare Kitchen for indigent students of the Community. This was one of the projects of focus, while celebrating the Mass of the eight week of ordinary time (2nd of March), 2025. Kick-starting the Programme immediately after the homily, the Chaplain, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Akinwumi Akinsode pointed out that there is the urgent need to establish a Student Welfare Kitchen Scheme to take care of the need of Catholic students are who truly indigent and as such have no one to cater to them.

Historicizing the existence of such scheme within the parish, Fr. Michael Akinsode particularly noted out that although the program had existed within the Chaplaincy before he came in as Chaplain, but had been (majorly) restricted to the needs of students during examination period. Fr. Akinsode pointed out that, not all students on campus have access to three square meals a day and as such must be supported. In his view, having interacted with major stakeholders, he observed that there is no other time than now to embark on such scheme.

Supporting the view of the Parish Priest, the Parish Pastoral Council Chairman, Prof. K.T, Ijadunola, argued that his analysis of the situation on campus shows that the Church is gradually losing her student membership to other Churchs around, who entice them with such welfare which is basically foodstuff. Prof K.T, Ijadunola who is also the Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Ilara Mokin, pointed out that the empty pews in the Church, especially on a Sunday is a testament to the fact that the students must be supported as far as the Students Welfare Scheme is concerned. He particularly pleaded with the students to also make sure they do their best to ensure the success of the scheme as it is their project.

Highlights of the program was the special launch which attracted contributions from both staff and students parishioners. Appreciating the efforts of the faithfulls, Fr. Akinsode paryed for God’s continous blessings on the people and work. He encouraged them to see the students as their children in constant need. He also warned that, students must be sure they are truly indigents to benefit from the scheme as it is not meant for everybody.