By Chizoba Okeke
In a continued demonstration of his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and educational development, the Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, has disbursed another ₦10 million in education grants to undergraduates from Ogbaru Local Government Area. An additional ₦2.5 million was also allocated to secondary school students to support tuition fees and other essential academic needs.
The grants were officially unveiled during the third edition of the “Ogbaru Youth Parliament” themed ,“The Future Is Now, Not Tomorrow.” This marks the second phase of the Speaker’s ₦10 million education grant scheme, aimed at supporting students across various tertiary institutions.
Addressing the audience, Udeze urged the beneficiaries to remain focused and excel in their respective academic fields. He also called on the youth to support Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s re-election bid, citing the governor’s landmark achievements in education and other sectors of the state economy.
The Chairman of the event, Sir Ikenna Odume, alongside Dame Chinyere Mbakwe, a member of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, commended Speaker Udeze for his “genuine and consistent investment” in the educational advancement of Ogbaru youths. They encouraged students to maximize the opportunity and channel the funds towards academic excellence.
Guest lecturers at the event including former State Assembly member Hon. Ejiofor Egwuatu, and entrepreneurs Mr. Ifeanyi Ogbaji and Mrs. Adaobi Onyele, emphasized the importance of self belief, hard work, and commitment to studies. They praised the Speaker’s enduring passion for youth development, noting that his multimillion naira educational interventions continue to transform the future of many young people in the region.
Student beneficiaries Miss Uba Onyinyechi and Master Victor Chimezie expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the grant as a lifeline that will significantly ease their academic burden. They prayed for divine strength and continued success for the Speaker.
The highpoint of the event was the official presentation of ₦10 million worth of education grants to the selected students by the Speaker.
This latest disbursement reinforces Speaker Udeze’s standing as a frontline advocate of education in Anambra State and a tireless champion for the youths of Ogbaru.
Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
