By Jude Michael
The second investiture of students of Angel Gabriel’s College, Okpuno, in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, was held on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Okpuno.
The investiture which was presided by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, was welcomed with joy by students, parents and staff members of the institution.
Given that the institution is one of the youngest Catholic schools in the diocese, Bishop Ezeokafor, in his homily, appreciated the efforts of the manager, Rev. Fr. Fidelis Odunukwe, principal and teachers who, he said, were making positive impact in the lives of the students.
The prelate who is also the proprietor of the college, appreciated the efforts of the teachers; even as he added that teaching was not just a profession but a vocation.
The Bishop also cautioned the students to always abide by the rules and regulations of the college, noting that Catholic education trained a whole person. He told them that they were there to be guided in order to be worthy in both character and learning.
Bishop Ezeokfaor who also charged the congregation to live a life of repentance, called on the members to always serve God effectively as they could not serve God and mammon at the same time.
He called for parental guidance and the role of family in the upbringing of a child; even as he noted that society played a vital role in the guidance of the students, rather than the school’s teachers only.
For his part, the school Manager, Rev. Fr Odunukwe, thanked the Bishop, the priests and staff members of the college for making great strides in the formation of the students.
The Manager who acknowledged the desire of the Bishop in education, especially with the establishment of Peter University, Achina/Onneh, shared his sentiments with others in the way and manner at which the Bishop had made a mark in the return of schools to missionary and in encouraging students through awards of scholarships.
The event was also graced by priests, among whom were the board chairman of the college, Very. Rev. Fr. Dr Evaristus Ifeanacho; the Diocesan Education Secretary, Rev. Fr. Maximus Okonkwo; and the Manager of St. Patrick’s College, Rev. Fr Paschal Udoh.
The principal of the school, Lady Edna Ubboe, teachers and other members of staff, were part of those who witnessed the investiture.
Highlights of the event included presentation of address of welcome by the students, presentation of gifts to best performing students in each subject and a group photograph.
