As the 2024-2025 academic year begins, I had the honor of visiting Our Lady’s Academy, Umuoji, to celebrate their school resumption Mass. This marked the official commencement of a new academic journey filled with promise, hope, and the pursuit of excellence. Under the capable leadership of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Oguekemma, the school has been nurturing young minds, preparing them not only for academic success but also for greatness in all aspects of life.
my appreciation
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Oguekemma, who is the school’s manager and the principal, his team of dedicated staff and the parents of the students, for their tireless work and engagement in building a better society through the development of these young ones. Their unwavering commitment to shaping the future of these students is truly commendable and worthy of recognition.
giving awards for outstanding performances
After the Holy Mass, I had interactive session with the students. This was followed by the presentation of award to the students and teachers who distinguished themselves exceptionally in academics, spiritual, moral, and social aspects of human training.
I thank the school management for such initiatives and for giving me the privilege to present the prepared gifts to the concerned students and teachers.
I also used the opportunity to motivate the students by appreciating some of them through my little gifts. The students who received awards serve as a source of inspiration, not just to their peers, but to the entire school community.
I encouraged everyone, particularly those who did not receive awards this year, to work harder and strive to do better in the just inaugurated academic year and onwards.
More Pictures at the end..
The Challenges Facing Our Lady’s Academy
However, my visit also brought to light some challenges that urgently need to be addressed. The school is facing significant hurdles that are affecting the quality of education they can provide. I came to understand that they are in dire need of ten whiteboards. The existing boards are either outdated or insufficient, making it difficult for teachers to effectively deliver lessons.
Additionally, there is a pressing need for scholarships. Several bright students are on the verge of dropping out because their families can no longer afford school fees. These young minds are at risk of losing the opportunity for a quality education, something that can change their lives for the better if they are given the chance.
Another major concern is the state of the school’s infrastructure. The current academic block is inadequate to support the growing number of students. The classrooms are cramped, and the learning environment is far from comfortable. A new academic block is not just a luxury but a necessity if the school is to continue providing the excellent education it is known for. Without this support, students will struggle to thrive, and the school’s mission of forming well-rounded, prepared individuals may be compromised.
The Impact of Our Lady’s Academy
Despite these challenges, Our Lady’s Academy has remained a beacon of excellence. The school prides itself on its holistic approach to education. Here, students are not only academically groomed but also shaped to become individuals of character and integrity. Their all-around formation prepares them to face the future with confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose.
This dedication to forming future leaders is why I believe more people should consider enrolling their wards in the school. The nurturing environment, combined with a focus on excellence, equips students for greatness in life, academically and beyond.
A Call for Help
I am making a heartfelt appeal to those who are in a position to help. The needs of the school are urgent, and the students deserve a learning environment where they can thrive. Whether it is through providing whiteboards, sponsoring a scholarship, or contributing toward the construction of a new academic block, your assistance can make a world of difference.
Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and every teacher deserves the tools to teach effectively. By lending a helping hand, you will be investing in the future of these young minds, and by extension, the future of our society.
Let us come together and support Our Lady’s Academy, Umuoji, as they continue their mission of excellence and formation for greatness.
More Pictures from the Celebration..
All Glory be to God.
Lieber Father Henry ! Ganz eine tolle Sache die du da begleitest. Ich wünsche dir und allen verantwortlichen, sei es Lehrkräfte oder Geistliche, viel Kraft für die unbedingt notwendige Weiterführung dieser Schule, sodass die Kinder weiter gefördert werden können. Alles alles Gute!!!!
Vielen Dank Lieber Martin. Wir teilen die Liebe die wir selbst bekommen haben.
Thank you Fr Henry for honouring our invitation. Your love for education and for the young ones were practically expressed during this ceremony. The Students and staff of Our Lady’s International Academy Umuoji are very grateful.
Thank You Fr, You are welcome. May God be praised.
Keep doing the good work! Nwanne mmadu 🙏🏻
Thank you so much Fr. May God be praised. Amen