By Stanley Okehie
Winners of the RBK Okafor Family Foundation Scholarship are set to receive the second tranche of their awards soon.
The Director General of the Foundation, Chief John Donald Ikegwuruka, disclosed this during a brief meeting with the scholars in Owerri.
Chief Ikegwuruka explained that the session provided an opportunity to appraise the students’ performance, identify any academic challenges they may be facing, and make recommendations for the release of the next tranche.
He stressed that the initiative was designed to ensure the scholars have no excuse not to excel academically.
Reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment to the welfare of the students, Chief Ikegwuruka, who spoke on behalf of the Chief Executive, Ngozi RBK Okafor, expressed satisfaction with the scholars’ progress. He assured them of a brighter future should they maintain their excellent academic grades until graduation, while urging them to uphold the values and aspirations of the Foundation.
Highlighting some of the Foundation’s other empowerment programmes, he noted that Ngozi RBK Okafor has sponsored initiatives such as youth empowerment, payment of West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees, free Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration, and the distribution of starter packs to artisans across her federal constituency.
He called on other well-meaning individuals to emulate her gesture, saying such acts bring hope and relief to many families.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Arinze Favour Chisom, a student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University from Oru West, said the scholarship motivates her to dedicate more time to her studies. She promised not to relent academically and prayed for God’s blessings upon Ngozi RBK Okafor.
Another scholar, Daniel Redemption Chukwuneke from Nkwesi in Oguta Local Government Area, studying Mechanical Engineering at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), said the scholarship was a great relief to his family. According to him, the support covers not just tuition but also provides cash for upkeep, eliminating distractions and motivating him to excel. He expressed gratitude to the Foundation and prayed for more resources to sustain the initiative.
Similarly, Emmanuella Chinaza Oputa, from Orsu Obodo, studying Education English at Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, described the scholarship as a divine blessing. She said it has contributed to her personal growth, boosted her confidence, and prayed for the fulfilment of the financier’s heart desires.