About GIPSED
Improving wellbeing through education, healthcare and economic opportunity.
incorporated with Nigeria’s CAC
neighbouring LGAs in northern Osun
people in our catchment area
Grassroots Initiative for Positive Socioeconomic Development (GIPSED) is a Nigerian non-governmental organisation founded by Dr Michael Olugbile and Mrs Oluwapelumi Olugbile and incorporated by Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission in 2013. We work to improve the wellbeing of people at the grassroots by expanding access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.
Our geographic focus is Odo-Otin, Ifelodun and Boripe, three neighbouring Local Government Areas in northern Osun State, South West Nigeria. Their combined population is approximately 509,000. Through targeted interventions and collaboration with schools, professional associations and community leaders, we support people and families facing poverty and vulnerability.
Following the loss of his father at age seven, Michael and his siblings experienced the difficulties that financial hardship can place on a child’s education. While he attended Odo-Otin Grammar School, there were periods when the family struggled to pay even the public school’s fees.
A scholarship from Bishop David Oyedepo of Living Faith Church, alongside help from other benefactors, supported his journey through medical school. While still a medical student, Michael set aside part of his scholarship funds to help younger students pay school and university entrance examination fees.
Michael and Oluwapelumi, née Olutoye, married in 2009 and established GIPSED to extend practical support to more people. Since incorporation, the co-founders have funded GIPSED’s work from their personal resources, supported by field staff, volunteers and community collaborators. Interventions span education, women’s economic empowerment, medical care, youth development, community welfare and access to justice.
Our vision
Our mission
We are dedicated to improving the quality of life of people at the grassroots by providing them with the support they need to achieve their full potential.
School heads, teachers, student associations, traditional and religious leaders and local coordinators help us understand needs and organise activities. Collaborators include the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), ANCOPSS, AOPHSON, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the League of Imams.
Beneficiaries are selected through fair assessments without political, religious or ethnic bias. Education programmes use assessment tests where appropriate. Some interventions involve community leaders applying agreed criteria, while teacher awards involve peer nominations and voting.
Revolving loans through women’s cooperative groups allow the same initial capital to support successive borrowers. Sustained scholarships help students continue their education over successive school years.
Scholarships help children stay in school; additional teachers strengthen learning. Medical outreach brings care closer to families, while livelihood support helps women invest in their businesses.
The people behind the work
Co-founder
Dr Michael Olugbile is a Harvard-trained public health physician and international development professional. His experience of receiving educational support helped shape a lifelong commitment to opening opportunities for others.
Co-founder
Mrs Oluwapelumi Olugbile is an Oxford University alumna, a chartered accountant with ACCA and ICAN qualifications, and an MBA holder. Her background spans accounting, public financial management and public policy, alongside her commitment to education and community development.
Their shared commitment is carried forward by GIPSED’s field staff, teachers, volunteers, professional colleagues and community representatives. At the heart of GIPSED is a belief shaped by experience: timely support can change the direction of a person’s life.