The Charles Kene Ojukwu Initiative (CKOi) Okunenyeife Foundation has made a significant donation of N5 million to Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Nigeria. The donation was made to support the reconstruction of the walkway pavilion that connects the old Medical Centre to the newly constructed University Medical Centre building. This gesture was made ahead of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) accreditation exercise, highlighting the foundation's commitment to supporting the university's development.
The donation was presented at the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, by representatives of the foundation. Mr Sylvester Ojiugo, Manager of the CKOi Okunenyeife Foundation, and Dr Chibuike Abunike, a lecturer at UNIZIK, were present to make the donation on behalf of the foundation's founder, Dr Charles Kenechukwu Ojukwu. This act is part of the foundation's broader mission to contribute to the development of the university and improve its facilities.
Dr Charles Kenechukwu Ojukwu, a British-trained Consultant Family Physician based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, is the founder of the CKOi Okunenyeife Foundation. The foundation focuses on various initiatives, including community health insurance, scholarships, youth empowerment, and strategic institutional projects across Anambra State. Ojukwu's interest in supporting his alma mater is evident through the foundation's pledge to support UNIZIK, particularly in the development and upgrading of the University Medical Centre.
The CKOi Okunenyeife Foundation had previously pledged to support UNIZIK during Ojukwu's visit to the university in June 2023. The foundation's donation for the walkway reconstruction is a fulfillment of this pledge. The walkway pavilion serves as a critical link between the old and new Medical Centre buildings, facilitating movement for staff, students, patients, and visitors. Its reconstruction is expected to enhance the overall experience and functionality of the Medical Centre.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Hilda Osisioma, expressed her gratitude to the foundation for redeeming its pledge and supporting the development of the Medical Centre. Dr Jane Ezeonu, Director of Medical Services, also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for fostering an environment conducive to partnerships and collaborations. She appreciated Ojukwu for his support towards the University Medical Centre, acknowledging the impact of his contributions.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie responded by appreciating the donor for the significant contribution. He emphasized that UNIZIK remains committed to its progressive path under his administration and welcomes development partners, alumni, and friends of the university who are willing to contribute to its growth and advancement. The Vice-Chancellor's remarks highlight the university's openness to collaborations that can enhance its facilities and services.
The reconstruction of the walkway pavilion is expected to have a positive impact on the university community. It will improve movement and accessibility between the old and new Medical Centre buildings, enhancing the overall functionality of the Medical Centre. The donation by the CKOi Okunenyeife Foundation is a testament to the potential for partnerships between institutions and philanthropic organizations in supporting educational development.
Key points
- The CKOi Okunenyeife Foundation donated N5 million to UNIZIK for the reconstruction of the walkway pavilion linking the old and new Medical Centre buildings.
- The donation was made ahead of the MDCN accreditation exercise, highlighting the foundation's commitment to supporting the university's development.
- The foundation's contributions are part of its broader mission to support community health initiatives, education, and youth empowerment across Anambra State.
