The Progressives of the Unique 1988 Set of the Emmanuel College Owerri Old Students Association has called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to improve Nigeria's education sector. This call was made during the unveiling of a renovated five-classroom block at their alma mater in Owerri, Imo State. The event was attended by government officials, school administrators, teachers, and students. The association's efforts aim to give back to the institution that shaped their lives.
The 1988 set paid National Examinations Council examination fees for financially disadvantaged Junior Secondary School III students to ensure no child was denied academic opportunities due to financial constraints. Additionally, the group cleared the West African Examinations Council centre revalidation fees to support the school's examination readiness. This intervention is part of the group's commitment to contributing meaningfully to an environment where students can learn, grow, and pursue excellence.
Speaking on behalf of the 1988 set, Mr. Obii Madumere urged the students to protect the renovated facilities against vandalism. He emphasized that the impact of their intervention should be measured by the quality of lives and futures shaped within the facilities, rather than just their physical appearance. Madumere noted that their mission has always been clear: to contribute to an environment where students can learn, grow, dream, and pursue excellence.
An alumnus and Imo State Commissioner for Science, Technology, Innovation and Engineering, Ikenna Elezianya, expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the institution. He noted that the school's current physical state was a departure from its high standards when he graduated 40 years ago. Elezianya commended the 1988 set for its intervention and urged teachers and students to maintain focus on academic excellence.
The Acting National President of the Emmanuel College Owerri Old Students Association, Sir George Nwachukwu, and the Project Lead, Chukwueke Junai, commended the set for funding the project. Nwachukwu called for greater collaboration among alumni and friends of the college to restore the institution to its former glory. He urged the students to remain dedicated, humble, and hardworking in pursuit of their goals.
Junai assured the school management that the group would extend its renovation efforts to the teachers' block. He stated that the Progressives of the Unique 1988 Set are committed to giving the school a facelift to enable students to learn in a conducive environment. This commitment extends beyond structural renovation to holistic, sustainable support for students and teachers.
The Progressives of the Unique 1988 Set's efforts have been recognized as a significant contribution to improving the educational experience in Imo State. Their actions serve as a model for other groups and individuals to support education in Nigeria. The group's initiatives aim to create a positive impact on the lives of students and the broader community.
Key points
- The Progressives of the Unique 1988 Set of Emmanuel College Owerri Old Students Association subsidized exam fees for financially disadvantaged students in Imo State.
- The group renovated a five-classroom block and plans to extend renovation efforts to the teachers' block.
- The association called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to improve Nigeria's education sector.
