The Aguowulu Progressive Union Aguleri-Otu has launched a new scholarship program for students in privately-owned primary and secondary schools, as well as public senior secondary schools in the Aguleri-Otu communities of Anambra East Local Government Area. The communities include Eziagulu-Otu, Enugu-Otu, and Mkpunando-Otu.
The unveiling ceremony, held at Eziagulu-Otu, was attended by government officials, politicians, traditional rulers, students, teachers, parents, and the Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh. Represented by Dr. Ifeoma Onyeneke, Director of Schools in the Ministry of Education, Prof. Chuma-Udeh praised the union’s initiative, aligning it with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s policy of making quality education accessible and affordable for all.
The Education Commissioner encouraged students to focus on their studies, emphasizing that the burden of school fees has been lifted for the brightest students, thanks to the union’s support. She urged the Aguowulu Progressive Union to continue their efforts.
Engineer Julius Chukwuemeka, the Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources and a union member, highlighted the importance of investing in education and health to build a better society. He noted Governor Soludo’s commitment to these sectors through free basic education and free antenatal and delivery services.
Chukwuemeka also addressed the challenge of poor orientation in his community and advocated for the hiring of indigenous teachers in remote areas to improve the learning environment.
In his welcome address, Mr. Emmanuel Mokwe, Chairman of Aguowulu Progressive Union, emphasized the union’s commitment to supporting education and unity within their community since its founding in 2009. The scholarship program aims to support and encourage diligent students.
Igwe Lawrence Nwofia, traditional ruler of Eziagulu-Otu, commended the union’s humanitarian efforts and prayed for peace in Aguleri and surrounding areas.
During the event, the union pledged to cover the school fees of selected students and distributed educational materials. Engineer Chukwuemeka also promised to pay for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) and National Examination Council (NECO) fees for fifteen students, supporting Governor Soludo’s education policy.
The event was attended by Igwe Johnson Mbanefo, traditional ruler of Mkpunando-Otu Aguleri; Igwe Emmanuel Ejiofor of Enugu-Otu; Chief Joseph Ekwealor, Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra East Local Government Area; Chief Primus Odili, former Chief of Staff to former Governor Willie Obiano, represented by Maazi Joseph Anayo; and Chief Emmanuel Oguguo, National President of Anambra Mandate for Good Governance.
The ceremony featured a match past by students, pupils, and National Youth Service Corps members.
