By Uzo Ugwunze :
The Metropolitan Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke has awarded scholarship for two academic sessions each to two outstanding students of All Hallows Seminary Onitsha, Anambra State.
The prelate made the pronouncement during the occasion of the Patronal feast (All Saints) and Parents’/Benefactors’/Alumni’s Day of All Hallows Seminary, Onitsha.
The beneficiary, Master John Paul Iji came out with overall best result out of over 5000 students from all the secondary schools which sat for the last 2022 Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination (JSSCE) in Anambra State.
Another beneficiary, Master John Otiwu caught the heart of the Prelate when he sang with soprano/tenor voice-tone during the students choir rendition at the All Saints feast celebration.
According to Archbishop Okeke, we are proud of students of All Hallows Seminary Onitsha which is the oldest seminary school in the whole of Southeast and one of the best known for academic excellence and high moral standards.
“We have nothing less than 400 registered secondary schools in Anambra except the non accredited schools yet this young boy came out the best.
“This is an example of hard work, discipline and dedication, such chaps should be encouraged.
“During the choir rendition which was partly sang in Latin, the voice of this boy who sang tenor took me out of this world, I wished that the music did not stop because it was so melodious and sanctimonious.
“The best JSSCE will still attract more scholarship from me if he comes out best during Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, let him work harder”, said Archbishop Okeke.
The prelate urged the people to support the school towards upgrading its infrastructure as it would be celebrating 100 years of existence by 2024.
In his speech, the school rector, Rev Fr. Paschal Okonkwo eulogized Archbishop Okeke for the scholarships, his immense contributions, fatherly counseling and for presiding over the Eucharist celebration in the seminary.
The rector after appreciating the formators and academic staff said that the school has continued to adhere to the Archbishop’s vision of promotion of Excellence in academics, character formation, sports and music.
“This year, the seminary among other exploits scored 100percent success in Junior WAEC which saw John Paul Iji emerging as best candidate.
“John Paul also took 2nd position in the National Mathematics Competition held in Abuja,” said Fr. Okonkwo.
Fr. Okonkwo thanked different Sets of All Hallows Old Boys (AHOBA) for identifying with their alma mater financially and otherwise.
“I thank AHOBA 1969/70 set for constructing 30ft overhead water tank. AHOBA 1971 renovated one hostel block. AHOBA 1996 reconstructed our Lawn tennis court and AHOBA 2003 donated multi purpose photocopier and Industrial cum manual sewing machines to the school,” he said.
In his remarks, AHOBA 1996 set President, Mr. Christopher Nwafor who was nostalgic about his seminary school days said that he owed his achievements and attainment in life to the discipline inculcated in him in the school urging other old boys to assist their alma mater.
