By Claribel Udah
Five students of Washington Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha, have received awards of excellence at the Agnes Chikwem Girls’ Achievement Award ceremony organised by the Agnes Chikwem Foundation in partnership with the Ladies of St. Mulumba (LSM), St. Mary’s Sub-Council, Onitsha.
The event, held on May 13, celebrated academic excellence and promoted girl-child education among students.
Speaking during the ceremony, Lady Ejiamike Veronica, President LSM, St. Mary’s Sub-Council Onitsha presented a short biography of the Founder late Mrs. Agnes Chikwem. She said the foundation was established 10years ago to reward hardworking female students and encourage excellence among young girls.
“For you to receive this award, you must have distinguished yourself as an excellent student,” she said, adding that previous beneficiaries included students from Ado Girls Secondary School and Inland Girls Secondary School.
She said that each award recipient received ₦35,000, books, gifts, and certificates.
The students honoured at the ceremony were Okoye Uchenna, Ani Ogechukwu Rita, Anammah Ifeanyi Faith, Oputa Sopuluchukwu, and Igwechi Chisom Precious.
The Guest Speaker, Lady Uju Maduegbuna, urged the girls to remain focused on education and moral values, warning against distractions capable of affecting their future.
“You must train yourselves academically and morally. When you become women of value, doors will open for you,” she advised.
Mrs. Obioma Igwechi, speaking on behalf of parents, thanked the organisers and prayed for greater blessings upon the foundation, while one of the award recipients, Ani Ogechukwu Rita, expressed appreciation on behalf of the students.
The school Principal, Mrs Nkem Nkechi also encouraged the students to combine academic excellence with good character, stating that “true success must reflect both inside and outside”.
The ceremony concluded with prayers and refreshments for guests and participants.
Claribel is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
