Nsukka Cyon Connect

ECAMF EMPOWERS BENEFICIARY WITH PLUMBING TOOLS TO BOOST SELF-RELIANCE

In a further demonstration of its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable human development, the Ezinne Cecilia Aji Memorial Foundation (ECAMF) on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, presented a set of professional plumbing working implements to one of its beneficiaries, Mr Ejike Odugwu, at the Nsukka CYON Channel.

The presentation formed part of the Foundation's broader vision of supporting not only academic excellence but also vocational and entrepreneurial development among young people. The initiative seeks to equip beneficiaries with practical skills and the necessary tools to become self-reliant and productive members of society.

Speaking during the presentation, the Chairman of the ECAMF Board of Trustees, Rev. Fr. Teclus Ike Ugwueze, emphasized that the Foundation remains committed to empowering young people through both education and skill acquisition.

According to him, true development goes beyond classroom learning and must include the capacity to create value, solve societal problems, and earn a dignified livelihood.

"Education and vocational skills are not competitors but partners in human development. Our desire is to see young people become financially independent, professionally competent, and morally responsible citizens. By providing these tools, we are investing not only in an individual but also in the future of our society," he stated.

The beneficiary, visibly delighted by the gesture, expressed profound gratitude to the Foundation and the Aji family for believing in his potential. He described the support as a life-changing opportunity that would significantly enhance his capacity to practice his trade and improve his economic prospects.

The event also served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the late Ezinne Cecilia Aji, whose memory continues to inspire initiatives that transform lives and restore hope to young people. Through scholarships, mentorship programmes, and vocational empowerment projects, the Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission of raising a generation of educated, skilled, and responsible leaders.

As ECAMF continues to expand its impact, the presentation of the plumbing implements stands as another testament to the Foundation's belief that empowering one individual can create opportunities for many others and ultimately contribute to the building of a stronger and more prosperous society.

Miracle Chidiogo Obetta

Reporting from Nsukka CYON Channel

Breaking the Silence on Nsukka CYON Channel

Together with Jenny and Vivian (BSHN), we explored the growing impact of substance abuse on the mental health and well-being of young people.

It was an enlightening and engaging session, enriched by the insights of these brilliant students from the College of Nursing, Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka. Their thoughtful contributions shed light on a critical issue facing today's youth, while inspiring healthier choices and greater awareness within our communities.

A truly impactful conversation that left everyone informed, challenged, and empowered. 💙

🎙️

ST. JOSEPH'S SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & CREATIVE ARTS, OBOLLO-AFOR

"AKU DI N' UZU" – There Is Wealth in Skill

ADMISSION NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026/2027 ACADEMIC SESSION

Why Chase Jobs When You Can Create Them?

In a rapidly changing world, practical skills have become one of the greatest assets a young person can possess. At St. Joseph's School of Technology & Creative Arts, Obollo-Afor, we are committed to raising a new generation of skilled professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators who are equipped to thrive in today's competitive economy.

This missionary tertiary institution offers a unique blend of technical excellence, moral formation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, ensuring that every graduate leaves not merely with knowledge, but with the competence to build a future.

Why Choose St. Joseph's?

✅ Fully Equipped Workshops and Modern Laboratories

✅ Complete Tools and Equipment for Every Student

✅ Practical, Hands-On Training from Day One

✅ Industrial Training with Global Partners

✅ Highly Qualified and Experienced Instructors

✅ Entrepreneurial Development and Career Guidance

✅ Employment Opportunities After Graduation

Available Programmes

🔹 Building & Construction Technology

🔹 Fashion & Textile Design Technology

🔹 Metal Work (Welding & Fabrication) Technology

🔹 Digital & Creative Arts Technology

🔹 Electrical & Electronics Technology

Entry Requirement

Applicants must possess a valid:

✔ SSCE (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)

Our Vision

At St. Joseph's School of Technology and Creative Arts, we believe that education should empower, transform, and inspire. We go beyond classroom theory to provide practical, real-world training that prepares students to become productive members of society, successful entrepreneurs, and employers of labour.

Here, you don't just learn. You build. You create. You innovate. You become.

Important Dates

📌 End of Sale of Admission Forms:26th August, 2026

📌 Interview and Orientation:28th August, 2026

📌 Resumption Date:14th September, 2026

📌 Official Opening and Inauguration:24th September, 2026

How to Apply

Admission Forms are available at:

📍 Catholic Secretariat, Nsukka Diocese

📍 University of Nigeria Chaplaincy

📍 St. Patrick's Parish, Obollo-Afor

Note: Completed forms should be returned to the same centre where they were obtained.

For Enquiries

☎ 08130134578

☎ 07046478922

Director

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel

ST. JOSEPH'S SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & CREATIVE ARTS, OBOLLO-AFOR

"AKU DI N' UZU" – THERE IS WEALTH IN SKILL.

Secure your future. Learn a skill. Build a career. Create opportunities.

ECAMF STRENGTHENS BOND WITH BENEFICIARIES AT INTERACTIVE SESSION, UNVEILS PLANS FOR SCHOLARSHIP DIGITALIZATION

In a remarkable gathering marked by inspiration, mentorship, and renewed commitment to educational excellence, the Ezinne Cecilia Aji Memorial Foundation (ECAMF) held an interactive session with its scholarship beneficiaries on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the ancestral compound of the late Ezinne Cecilia Aji in Umuogbo-Ulo.

The event brought together members of the Foundation's Board of Trustees and beneficiaries for a fruitful exchange aimed at fostering deeper relationships and strengthening the Foundation's mission of empowering young people through education and moral formation.

Present at the gathering were the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Rev. Fr. Teclus Ike Ugwueze, and the Secretary of the Foundation, Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Abugu (née Aji). The beneficiaries were given the opportunity to introduce themselves, share their academic journeys, strengths, ambitions, and challenges, while receiving guidance and encouragement from the Foundation's leadership.

The session revealed the impressive progress being made by many of the beneficiaries. Among them are two students currently studying Medicine and Surgery, while another beneficiary is preparing to pursue a degree in Law. Several others are working tirelessly to obtain outstanding WAEC results, recognizing that admission into professional courses remains a key criterion for the continuation of the scholarship support. Beyond academics, a number of beneficiaries are already distinguishing themselves through exceptional entrepreneurial initiatives, demonstrating creativity, resilience, and a strong spirit of self-development.

A major highlight of the occasion was the presentation of certificates to the 2026 beneficiaries, formally welcoming them into the ECAMF scholarship family and reaffirming the Foundation's commitment to supporting their educational aspirations.

In a moment of reflection and gratitude, beneficiaries and board members proceeded to the graves of Ezinne Cecilia Aji and Chief Clement Aji, where prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of their souls and thanksgiving rendered for the enduring legacy of faith, generosity, and service they left behind.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Rev. Fr. Teclus Ike Ugwueze charged them to remain committed to academic excellence and moral uprightness, emphasizing that the scholarship programme seeks not only to produce successful professionals but also responsible citizens and future leaders.

"The future belongs to those who prepare for it with discipline, determination, and integrity. Continue to work hard, remain focused on your goals, and never compromise your moral values. Character and competence must always go together," he advised.

The Chairman further announced the Foundation's plans to digitalize the ECAMF Scholarship Scheme to ensure a more efficient, transparent, and professional administration of the programme, a development that was warmly received by the beneficiaries.

Speaking during the session, the Foundation's Secretary, Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Abugu, expressed profound appreciation to all the beneficiaries for honouring the invitation. She encouraged them to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits and assured them that dedication to excellence would continue to open doors of opportunity.

She reminded the students that the Foundation believes in their potential and remains committed to accompanying them on their journey toward becoming distinguished professionals and positive contributors to society.

The interactive session ended on a hopeful and inspiring note, further strengthening the bond between the Foundation and its beneficiaries while reaffirming ECAMF's vision of raising a generation of educated, morally grounded, and socially responsible young people.

Through initiatives such as its scholarship programme, the Ezinne Cecilia Aji Memorial Foundation continues to honour the memory of Ezinne Cecilia Aji by transforming lives, nurturing talents, and investing in the leaders of tomorrow.

Miss Chidiogo Obetta
Reporting from Nsukka CYON Channel

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A VISIONARY YOUTH LEADER 🎉🎂

Today, with hearts full of gratitude to God, the entire Nsukka CYON Channel joyfully celebrates an exceptional leader, a committed servant of the Church, and a passionate voice for Catholic youth apostolate — Roland Chigbo Asogwa.

Your leadership continues to inspire hope, unity, faith, and active participation among young people across the Diocese. Through your dedication, humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to the mission of CYON, you have remained a shining light and a worthy example of purposeful youth leadership in our generation.

As you celebrate this new chapter of life, we pray that the Almighty God strengthens you with divine wisdom, greater grace, sound health, and renewed zeal for the work of evangelization and youth formation. May the Holy Spirit continually guide your steps, enlarge your vision, and crown your sacrifices with lasting fruits.

May your life always reflect the joy of Christ and the beauty of selfless service to God and humanity.
Happy Birthday, Sir!

Keep shining, keep leading, and keep inspiring generations. 🎊🙏

— Signed:

Nsukka CYON Channel
The Digital Voice of Catholic Youths

OLD BOYS, OLD GIRLS – YOUNG WITNESSES: Bishop Onah Calls for Living Testimony of Catholic Education at End-of-Year Mass

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Most Rev Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, has on Thursday 14th May 2026, called on alumni of Catholic schools—old boys and old girls—to become “young witnesses” of the values and virtues they received, as he presided over a solemn Holy Mass marking the end of the academic year for diocesan schools.

The celebration, held in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and reflection, also coincided with the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, giving the Bishop the opportunity to situate the educational mission of the Church within the broader mandate of Christian witness.

In his introductory remarks, the Bishop recalled the mystery of the Ascension, noting that Christ’s departure into heaven was not an abandonment but the beginning of a mission entrusted to the Church through the Holy Spirit. He reminded the faithful that just as the apostles were sent forth, so too are students formed and later commissioned to become witnesses in the world.

He expressed gratitude for the successful completion of the academic year, thanking God for peace, progress, and the absence of any major insecurity or tragic incident across diocesan schools. He appreciated parents, teachers, parish priests, administrators, and the Diocesan Education Commission for their collaboration in sustaining Catholic education.

Turning his attention to the students, the Bishop reaffirmed that Catholic schools are not only places of academic instruction but environments of integral formation where “knowledge, values, and virtues” are cultivated. He emphasized that duties such as prefectship, classroom responsibilities, and manual tasks are not mere routines but formative tools for character building.

A Homily on Witness and Mission

In his homily, the Bishop drew attention to the scriptural question: “Why are you men from Galilee standing here looking into the sky?” (Acts of the Apostles). Engaging students in a brief catechetical exchange, he underscored the transition from contemplation to mission, explaining that the Ascension marks the end of Christ’s visible presence and the beginning of apostolic responsibility.

He explained that Catholic education mirrors this movement: formation leads to mission. “There is a time for learning and a time for being sent,” he said, noting that students, like the apostles who spent three years with Jesus, are being prepared to go forth as witnesses.
The Bishop then developed the central theme of the celebration: “Old Boys, Old Girls – Young Witnesses.” He challenged alumni of Catholic institutions to see themselves not as former beneficiaries of the system but as active bearers of its identity in society.

According to him, the credibility of Catholic education is measured not only by academic excellence alone, but also by the moral and spiritual witness of its products. “If after passing through a Catholic school there is nothing in your life that reflects it, then something essential is missing,” he warned.

He urged former students to bear witness wherever they find themselves—in professions, public service, business, and family life—by living out integrity, faith, discipline, and service. He cautioned against criticism without contribution, insisting that true alumni identity is expressed through support, improvement, and testimony.

Values, Virtues, and Formation for Life

Expanding on the philosophy of Catholic education, the Bishop distinguished between values and virtues, describing values as what one considers important in life, and virtues as the moral strength required to attain them. He explained that Catholic schools intentionally shape both through academic formation and daily discipline.

He pointed to everyday school responsibilities—such as chapel duties, refectory service, cleaning, and leadership roles—as intentional instruments for character formation. These, he said, prepare students for future responsibility and witness.

Historical Legacy and Present Challenges

The Bishop recalled the long-standing legacy of Catholic education in Nigeria, referencing institutions such as St. Theresa’s College, established in 1948, which continues to influence generations. He noted that Catholic schools have produced leaders across religious and cultural divides, including Muslims, demonstrating the universal value of their formation.
He, however, expressed concern over declining alumni engagement and inadequate financial support for mission schools. He stressed that Catholic education is not profit-driven but missionary in nature, designed to serve the poor and build society.

He lamented the financial burden placed on mission schools since the government takeover of the 1970s, noting that many institutions suffered decline as a result. Today, he said, the Diocese manages 88 primary schools in need of sustained support.

A Call to Responsibility

The Bishop called on government, Church members, and especially alumni to support Catholic education, warning that without collective responsibility, schools may become inaccessible to the poor.

He urged students to reject examination malpractice, violence, bullying, dishonesty, and laziness, and instead embrace discipline, self-sacrifice, and truth. These, he said, are the marks of authentic witnesses of Catholic formation.

At the close of Mass, the Diocesan Education Secretary expressed gratitude to God for a peaceful academic year, highlighting the absence of insecurity or loss of life across schools. He announced thanksgiving celebrations scheduled across deaneries and thanked the Bishop for his constant pastoral presence and encouragement.

He also appreciated Administrators, religious, teachers, principals, and education staff for their commitment beyond financial reward, as well as students for their participation in liturgy and school life. Special recognition was given to Queen of the Rosary Secondary School Nsukka for their choir, St. Catherine for altar servers, St. Michael's Primary School Imilike Agu, for liturgical readers, and schools from Ogurugu in Uzo-Uwani LGA for their resilience despite security challenges.

The celebration concluded with renewed exhortations from the Bishop, who called for sustained excellence in external examinations such as JAMB, WAEC, and NECO, and greater commitment to moral integrity in all aspects of school life.

As the academic year comes to a close, the Diocese of Nsukka was left with a clear mandate: to form not only educated graduates, but “Old Boys and Old Girls” who become living witnesses—young in spirit, steadfast in faith, and bold in testimony to the transformative power of Catholic education.

Teclus Ike Ugwueze