A Non-Governmental Organisation, Doctor Chioma Awuzie Foundation (DCAF), on Saturday, offered scholarship to 17 indigent students of the tertiary institutions in Anambra State.
The students were drawn from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University Igbariam and the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.
Others were from Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu, Federal College of Education, Umunze and Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe.
Presenting her address, Dr Chioma Awuzie, convener of the foundation said that the annual Scholarship Scheme and Charity Programme was to mark her 50th birthday.
Awuzie, also the Director, Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Okopoly, said the scholarship was geared towards promoting access to quality education and improving lives of indigent students.
She said that over 50 students had benefited since the inception of the scholarship scheme.
“For this year, the 17 beneficiaries will get cash support to allow them pursue their academic dreams without worrying about any financial burden for the session.
“Beneficiaries were selected from a poll of nominees by heads of public tertiary institutions in the state.
“We also distributed food items, foot wears, raincoats and clothing materials to students and residents of the polytechnic.
“I congratulate the recipients of this year’s scholarship award and I encourage them to use the funds judiciously to become self-reliant and be able to help others in future,” she stated.
Awuzie urged well-meaning individuals, corporate organisations, local and international donors to support the foundation in the quest to better the lives of youths and women.
On his part, Dr Francisca Nwafulugo, Rector, Okopoly, commended the foundation for investing in the educational aspirations of the youths, especially the financially vulnerable.
Nwafulugo, who was represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr Ken Ezekwe, urged well-meaning individuals to “emulate DCAF by using their wealth and resources to add value and meaning to the lives of the underprivileged,” she said.
In his remarks, Professor Moses Chendo, President, Chemical Society of Nigeria and Chairman of the event, appreciated Awuzie for her investment in human empowerment and development.
“Her project is laudable because she understands that the future is in the hands of the youths and they need all the support to become responsible citizens in the country,” he said.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Awele Okocha appreciated the convener of the foundation for supporting their dreams and aspirations.
