The Story Behind The Scholars’ Web (S-WEB)

The Scholars’ Web Foundation, affectionately known as S-WEB, was born out of a personal journey, a deep-seated calling, and a commitment to give back.

Its Convener, Dr. Joan Ebahi Okhiku, a proud alumna of Holy Trinity Grammar School (HTGS) in Sabongidda-Ora, Edo State, envisioned a platform that would nurture the creative and intellectual gifts of secondary school students across Nigeria. Her passion was shaped not only by her own formative years at HTGS where she once served as Head Girl in the year 2000 but also by the values instilled in her by her father, Sir Joe Okhiku, a strong advocate for youth development  through female football competition in Owan West and East Local Government Areas in the early 2000s.

Moved by a belief that confident, expressive young minds are the architects of a better society, Dr. Okhiku sought to recreate the same nurturing and empowering environment she once benefited from. Thus, in 2025, The Scholars’ Web Foundation was officially launched as a not-for-profit initiative focused on literacy development, academic challenge, and creative expression.

Our First Milestone

The Foundation’s first major programme, a Creative and Essay Writing Competition was launched at Holy Trinity Grammar School in July 2025. This was more than a symbolic beginning; it was a return home. The programme engaged students from JS1 to SS3, and from a wave of submissions, 50 finalists emerged. Of these, 15 winners were honoured and inducted into a long-term mentorship and ambassadorial journey.

This flagship event did more than identify talent, it rekindled hope, pride, and purpose among students, staff, alumni, and the broader community.

 Our Growth Vision

Building on this successful launch, S-WEB  plans to expand to other schools, beginning with Uzebba Grammar School in the 2025/2026 academic year, and gradually reaching schools throughout Owan West and East LGAs of Edo State.

Through partnerships with alumni networks, educators, and well-wishers, S-WEB aims to build a sustainable, community-driven movement that continues to weave the minds of Nigeria’s youth into strong, creative, and articulate leaders.

 Why “The Scholars’ Web”?

The name “Scholars’ Web” represents the interconnected network of young thinkers, mentors, and supporters working together to shape a future grounded in education, equity, and expression. Like a spider’s web, it is purposeful, resilient, and intricately designed each thread adding strength to the whole.

 A Lasting Legacy

From a dream in a school hallway to a thriving platform for youth empowerment, The Scholars’ Web Foundation is a living testimony of what happens when vision meets service, and when education is honoured not just as a goal, but as a gift to be passed on.

“We are building in sorrow and building in joy… a temple the world cannot see…”
  HTGS School Anthem

This line continues to inspire our journey.