By Chioma Nwankwo
Lady Uju Maduegbuna, has called on young girls to remain focused on education, discipline, and moral values as pathways to becoming successful and influential women in society.
Maduegbuna made the call on May 13, during the Agnes Chikwem Girls’ Achievement Award ceremony organised by the Agnes Chikwem Foundation in partnership with the Ladies of St. Mulumba, St. Mary’s Sub-Council, Onitsha, held at Washington Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha.
Speaking during the ceremony, Maduegbuna reflected on how opportunities for girls have evolved over the years, noting that girl-child education was once largely neglected in society.
“In the past, the education of the girl child often ended in the kitchen, but things are no longer the same. Girls today have opportunities to become exceptional and valuable women if they remain focused and determined,” she said.
She urged the students to pursue academic excellence while also developing strong moral character, stressing that integrity and discipline remain critical ingredients for future success.
“You must train yourselves not just academically but morally. When you become a person of value, doors will open for you wherever you go, and people will appreciate your worth,” she added.
Maduegbuna also cautioned young girls against distractions and premature relationships, warning that such choices could derail their education and future ambitions.
“At this stage in your lives, your priority should be your studies and personal development. Early involvement with men can destroy dreams and lead to setbacks such as unwanted pregnancy and school dropout,” she warned.
She encouraged the students to emulate accomplished Nigerian women such as the late Prof. Dora Akunyili and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whom she described as examples of hard work, excellence, and resilience.
Addressing the male students, she advised them to learn to respect and value women, noting that they are future husbands, fathers, and leaders of families.
Quoting a popular saying, she remarked: “Train a girl and you train a nation; train a boy and you train only a man.”
Maduegbuna concluded by urging all students to strive to make their parents proud through excellence and good conduct while offering prayers for the students, teachers, and parents present at the event.
The event, which celebrated academic excellence among female students, attracted parents, teachers, community members, and education advocates who gathered to honour outstanding students and promote the importance of girl-child education.
Chioma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
