By Daruwana Daku, Vivian Ononiwu, Nelson Sampson, Ebube Edieh and Amos Yakubu
For the students, parents and formators of Saint Johnbosco Seminary, Isuanocha, Awka North LGA of Anambra State, it was that time of the year, when they commemorate the festivity of their patron saint, Saint Johnbosco, who was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934. It also provided them an opportunity to gather and make merry, review the last academic year and present awards and encomiums to deserving students and staff who have excelled in character and learning.
This year’s event was no different, as the school’s chapel was filled to the brim on Saturday, February 10, 2024, for the annual celebration of the saint’s day.
The event began with a Holy Mass by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, Most. Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, who was represented by the Vicar General of the Diocese, Very. Rev. Fr Peter Chudi Akaenyi, and featured the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation by 78 students, as well as presentation of awards to outstanding houses, and best performing students in both academic, non-academic and extracurricular activities.
The Vicar, through his homily, reflected on the life and times of St. Johnbosco who, according to him, lived a life worthy of emulation and adhered to the call of service. This was even as he re-emphasized the need for a holistic education, which, according to him, had been the fulcrum of Catholic system in the diocese.
He also appreciated the efforts of the Rector, Rev. Fr Daniel Eduzor and parents of the students for their support in their children’s upbringing.
For his part, the Rector of the Seminary, Fr. Eduzor, thanked past rectors and priests who were present, guests, parents, and students for their continued support in the seminary. He also appreciated his team of priests and seminarians for their roles in the formation of the students. He also applauded Rev. Fr Chuma Johnson Anyaka for gifting the seminary with a standard basketball court, which, according to him, the seminary had been longing for.
While speaking with Fides at the handing over of the Basketball court to the seminary, Fr. Anyaka noted that the environment was integral in the formation of the young ones, and that, contributing to the environment was part of his idea in making sure that the seminary met with what was needed for learning.
Parents who were present also felt elated with the structure of the seminary and the growth it was receiving under the current administrator. Particularly, awards were given in areas of academics, character and behaviour, sports and other hobbies, parents and guests as well, appreciated the efforts of the children in distinguishing themselves in the academic year.
Some of the awardees included Emmanuel Etiwegu, Alphosus Onourah and Johnsistus Nwafor.
Other highlights of the event were the handing over of the seminary’s basketball court that was donated by Rev. Fr Chuma Johnson Anyaka to the Rector, cash donations by individuals, parishes, deaneries and people of good will in meeting up with the Seminary’s challegnes; as well as cultural performances. 
The event which was chaired by Chief Sir Charles Omalu, also had as dignitaries, the Senator representing Anambra Central at the National Assembly, Sen. Dr. Victor Umeh; representative of Mr Peter Obi, Dr Val Obienyem; Lady Nonye Okoye; Dr Dominic Nwankwo; Engr Sir. Christopher Okonkwo, among other guests. 
