The Dr. Chioma Awuzie Foundation (DCAF) has awarded scholarships and initiated a charity programme benefiting 137 economically disadvantaged students from six tertiary institutions across Anambra State, in a move the Foundation says reaffirms its commitment to education and empowerment.
The institutions included in this year’s initiative are the Federal Polytechnic, Oko; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe; Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze; Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam; and Anambra State Polytechnic, Mgbakwu.
During the presentation ceremony held at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko Auditorium, DCAF founder Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie marked her 52nd birthday by honouring 19 outstanding students with one-time academic scholarships and providing support through the Foundation’s charity programme for an additional 118 students.
“These young men and women have shown exceptional courage and a commitment to their studies despite facing significant personal and financial challenges,” said Dr. Awuzie. She emphasised that the scholarships represent more than mere financial aid — they serve as lifelines enabling talented yet underserved Nigerian students to pursue their dreams.
In addition to scholarships, the Foundation provided gift items and empowerment tools aimed at supporting women and youth, alongside feeding hundreds of guests and community members during the celebration.
Dr. Awuzie detailed five key areas in which DCAF intervenes: educational access, charity and community outreach, women and youth empowerment, healthcare and medical outreach, and maternal support and childbirth palliatives. She stated, “With today’s awards, our total number of beneficiaries has surpassed 100 students from six public tertiary institutions in Anambra State.”
DCAF has established itself as a vital resource for indigent students, struggling mothers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and entire communities. Dr. Awuzie described this year’s event as a comprehensive initiative that included feeding hundreds, distributing food and gifts to widows and the underprivileged, and providing support to pregnant women and elderly citizens.
“While these gestures may seem simple, for the recipients, they signify that someone cares,” she remarked.
Awuzie also underscored the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to economic empowerment, which has recently included providing cassava processing machines, startup grants to women, and donating commercial vehicles to aid unemployed youth.
“These practical supports enable recipients to establish small businesses and achieve financial independence,” she added.
Following a successful free medical outreach that assisted over 500 residents of Awada-Obosi, the Foundation intends to extend similar services to other rural and peri-urban communities.
Dr. Awuzie highlighted the importance of childbirth palliatives provided to expectant mothers, ensuring safer deliveries in host communities. “These efforts reflect our belief that true impact occurs when we empower both the mind and body, nurturing intellect while restoring dignity,” she explained.
Acknowledging the immense responsibility of the Foundation, Dr. Awuzie called for collaboration from industry leaders, development partners, government bodies, and the community to ensure the ongoing sustainability of their initiatives.
“With your partnership, we can scale our mission, reach more students, and work towards a Nigeria where no one is left behind due to poverty,” she concluded.
Professor Moses Chendo, Dean of Post Graduate Studies at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and event chair, commended Dr. Awuzie for her impactful contributions. “Her generosity and passion have made notable differences in many lives, turning ambitious goals into realities and providing access to education for families in need,” he said.
Beneficiary John Chioma Okoro, an Accountancy student at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s timely support. “This scholarship has come to our aid when we needed it the most,” he remarked.
PIAK