… Bishop Ezeokafor, Senator Umeh, Ex- Student, Parents Laud College
By Alexander Johnson Adejoh
Last Saturday, October 18, Saint Patrick’s College, Awka, marked a momentous milestone, celebrating its tenth anniversary. The event brought together distinguished alumni, parents, and dignitaries, including Senator Victor Umeh, Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, who chaired the occasion.
The celebration which was a testament to the college’s impact on the lives of its students had five alumni from the first set and subsequent sets sharing their testimonies, recounting how the college had shaped their academic, personal, and professional lives. They are currently studying various courses in the university, including Medicine, Accountancy, and Law, and are excelling in their respective fields.
The college’s emphasis on creativity and entrepreneurship has inspired them to venture into business, with some already running successful enterprises.
Mrs. Ifeoma Nwosu, a parent, expressed her gratitude to the college for transforming her daughter’s life.
‘My daughter came into the school not knowing anything, but the change in her academic life was remarkable,’ she said.
Another parent, Mr. Chukwuemeka Eze, thanked the Management for not only providing academic training but also moral and spiritual guidance to his child.
Other parents shared similar sentiments, praising the college’s holistic approach to education. Mrs. Ngozi Okoro said the school had done a great job in shaping her child’s future, while Mrs. Chioma Okafor appreciated the college’s emphasis on moral values. Mr. Emeka Eze acknowledged the school’s impact on his child’s spiritual growth.
The alumni’s testimonies were equally inspiring. Philippa Peters (Legacy set 2021), a 500-level Environmental Health Science student, and another Science student said the College laid the foundation for heir academic success.
Chelsea Chukwunonso (Eminent set 2022), a 400-level Theatre and Film Studies student at UNIZIK, praised what she described as the College’s entrepreneurial spirit, which, she said, had encouraged her to start her own business.
Other alumni, including Chidera Emmanuel (Legacy set 2021) Economics student, UNIZIK, 400-level; Chidubem Joseph (Eminent set 2022), Mechanical Engineering student UNIZIK, 200-level; and Franklyn Chukwuemeka (Unique set 2023), Fine and applied Arts, 200-level), shared similar experiences.
Senator Umeh, in his address, lauded the College’s achievements, attributing its success to its missionary heritage.
‘If you want to achieve excellence in administration, leave it to the Church,’ he said, emphasizing the importance of moral and spiritual guidance in education.
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, thanked God for the College’s progress and challenged everyone to support the school. He commended the school’s musical team for their talent and dedication, saying they always brought joy to his heart.
The highlight of the ceremony was the cultural display, confirmation of over a hundred students, and presentation of gifts. The event was a fitting tribute to the college’s remarkable journey so far.
The Manager of Saint Patrick’s College, Rev. Fr. Paschal Udo, thanked everyone for their support, reaffirming the school’s vision to become one of the best in Africa and beyond.
He commended the efforts of his predecessors, acknowledging that their hard work had made the celebration possible.
