By Charles Igwe
In a historic milestone, Dr. Paul Umolu, a dedicated Catholic Catechist, has achieved a significant academic feat by being awarded a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Benin, Benin City. Dr. Umolu, who lectures at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, is celebrated as the first Catechist in the Archdiocese of Benin City to attain a Ph.D.
Among the over 500 graduands recognized at the University’s 25th November convocation ceremony, Dr. Umolu stands out as a trailblazer in both his faith and academic pursuits. Specializing in Development Communication and Community Broadcasting, his groundbreaking achievement adds a new dimension to the role of Catechists within the Catholic community.
The convocation ceremony, presided over by the University’s Chancellor, the Tur Tiv, witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Edo State Governor and the University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lilian Salami. President B. A. Tinubu, the University’s Visitor, was represented by Alhaji Abubakar Momoh, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.
Dr. Paul Umolu, commissioned as a Catholic Catechist in 2019 after completing a three-year training at the Brother Roman Catechetical and Renewal Centre, Ekpoma, serves in The Church of Nativity of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Eyaen, Benin City, within the Archdiocese of Benin City. A member of the Knighthood Order of St. Paul, Dr. Umolu is married to Mrs. Margaret Umolu and is blessed with three boys and a girl.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights Dr. Umolu’s dedication to his faith but also underscores the potential for individuals within religious vocations to excel academically and contribute significantly to their respective fields of study.
