By USMAN ALIYU

The University of Benin has defended its prizes awarded to its top-performing students at the recent convocation ceremony, saying the awards, although meagre, were to recognise and reward academic excellence.

The university, In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Dr Benedicta Ehanire, on Thursday, explained that the prizes were sponsored by well-meaning individuals in the last 50 years.

Ehanire said the awards had been to guide the recognition and reward of excellence.

?The attention of the Management of the University of Benin has been drawn to reports in respect of the supposed meagre prizes awarded to some of the University?s best performing students.

?The University explains that whereas the said awards were sponsored by well meaning and public spirited persons over 50 years, the objectives of recognising and rewarding excellence have been the aim of the awards, rather than consideration of the monetary value.

?Management appreciates the concerns expressed over the issue and states that it will continue to work towards upholding the good image and reputation of the Institution,? she said. (NAN)