By Charles Igwe and Obum Okakpu
In a solemn and joyous ceremony held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, Archbishop Valerian Okeke bestowed his blessings and officially commissioned the impressive 1200 capacity hostel block at St John Technical College Alor, cementing the institution’s commitment to providing enhanced educational facilities for its students.
The event, marked by prayers and hymns, commenced with the blessing rites led by Archbishop Valerian Okeke. Hundreds of students, teachers, parents, and well-wishers gathered at the newly constructed hostel block to witness this momentous occasion.
Archbishop Valerian Okeke, during his address, praised the tireless efforts of the college’s administration, staff, and the local community in realizing this ambitious project. The 1200 capacity hostel block symbolizes the collective dedication to advancing education in Alor and the surrounding communities.
The hostel block, funded by the World Bank through the state government during the tenure of His Excellency, Chie Willie Obiano, the former governor of Anambra State, is now set to house all the students. Archbishop Valerian Okeke took up the project and ensured its completion, furthering the institution’s commitment to offering top-tier educational amenities.
The hostel block, a modern architectural marvel, offers comfortable accommodation for 1200 students, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a conducive and nurturing environment for learning. The building features spacious dormitories, modern amenities, and a serene environment designed to promote the holistic development of students.
During the commissioning ceremony, Archbishop Okeke blessed the new facility, sprinkling holy water throughout the building, symbolizing its sanctity as a place of learning and personal growth. He then unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the momentous occasion, as cheers and applause filled the air.
During his address, the school’s manager, Fr. Francis Unegbu, expressed profound gratitude for the positive transformation within the institution. He underlined that an impressive 40% of innovative projects within the school were carried out by both dedicated teachers and students, particularly in the technical department, specifically in electrical and metal works.
Fr. Unegbu also took the time to extend his heartfelt appreciation to Archbishop Okeke for his unwavering support, describing him as a fatherly figure guiding the school. The Archbishop’s benevolence was exemplified in the aftermath of a devastating fire that had ravaged the former hostel block, as well as their struggles against erosion challenges.
In addition, Fr. Unegbu expressed gratitude to the Old Boys Association, acknowledging their unwavering support and genuine concern for the well-being of the students.
Speaking to Trinitas Communications, Fr. Francis Unegbu shared his happiness and appreciation to all those who graced the event with their presence, including Archbishop Valerian Okeke, the clergy, and the parents and teachers of the students. The sense of unity and commitment was palpable throughout the ceremony.
Archbishop Okeke, recognizing exceptional talent among the students, awarded scholarships to three outstanding individuals who delivered exceptional musical renditions during the event.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Archbishop also blessed the newly constructed dining hall, and both students and guests were treated to a banquet, symbolizing the dawn of a new era in the growth and development of St John Technical College Alor. This milestone signifies not only the enhancement of educational infrastructure but also the strengthening of community bonds and the nurturing of future leaders.
