By Ebele Iyke Odili
The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has urged students of Rosa Mystica High School, Agulu, to embrace excellence, build good character and prepare for future leadership, noting that the values they acquire during their formative years will shape their lives.
Bishop Ezeokafor gave the charge on October 18, during a pastoral visit to the all-girls school, where 150 students received the Sacrament of Confirmation. The event also featured the commissioning of the renovated school chapel, the investiture of new students and the flag-off of the school’s inter-house sports competition.
In his sermon, the bishop urged the students to make the most of their secondary school years, pointing out that the lessons they learn now will influence their future. He said, “You have to live your life well now that you are still in secondary school because what you learn here will shape your future. There are many women in society who have made themselves, their communities and the nation proud.”
He cited the late Prof. Dora Akunyili, Sen. Uche Ekwunife, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, as examples of accomplished women whose achievements should inspire the students to pursue excellence and make meaningful contributions to society. He also stressed that “packaging and branding all should be embedded in excellence,” urging the girls to maintain high standards in their personal lives and future endeavours.
The bishop further called on parents and teachers to take their responsibilities in raising and guiding the students seriously. Referring to the biblical instruction to train a child in the right way, he emphasised the importance of proper upbringing and education in preparing young girls for responsible adulthood. He also used the Igbo expression, “Nwanyi bu ife,” to underscore the value and importance of women in society.
The confirmation of the 150 students marked an important stage in their spiritual journey within the Catholic Church. The commissioning of the renovated chapel and the investiture of new students were also significant highlights of the visit, reflecting the school’s commitment to the spiritual development of its students.
The programme continued with a colourful march-past by students representing the school’s six houses: Yellow, Green, Blue, Sky Blue, Dark Blue and Red. The students displayed enthusiasm and team spirit as they presented their respective houses before the gathering, while parents watched and cheered them on.
Bishop Ezeokafor formally flagged off the inter-house sports competition with the opening kick of a football, marking the beginning of activities scheduled to last for one week. The competition is expected to give students an opportunity to showcase their sporting talents while promoting discipline, teamwork and healthy competition.
The pastoral visit combined spiritual activities with sports and student engagement, with the bishop’s message highlighting the importance of excellence, good character and the collective responsibility of parents and teachers in shaping the next generation of women. The inter-house sports competition will continue throughout the week, providing students with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities and strengthen the spirit of sportsmanship.
Ebele Iyke-Odili is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
