By Charles Igwe, Obum Okakpu and Joachim Nwachukwu
On Wednesday, 7 February, 2024, amidst a jubilant atmosphere, the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institute in Odida Ogidi commenced, marking the realization of a long-awaited dream spearheaded by Archbishop Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Archbishop of Onitsha and the Metropolitan of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province. The event was graced by both the clergy and indigenes of Odida Ogidi community, symbolizing the culmination of years of effort and planning to bring the project to fruition.
The generous contribution from Mundo Cooperante, the sponsor of the project, towards the construction of the workshop and the engagement of site contractors has been instrumental in kickstarting the ambitious endeavor. Acknowledging the pivotal role of Mundo Cooperante, the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) congregation expressed gratitude for their support, stressing their commitment to the community’s development.
Although unavoidably absent, the Archbishop was represented by the Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Very Rev. Fr Johnbosco Okafor, who led the proceedings with fervour and enthusiasm. The event was marked by various significant rituals, including the blessing of the land with holy water, the ceremonial breaking of ground, and the blessing and breaking of kola nut.
Reflecting on the occasion, the Vicar General expressed profound joy, describing the project as one whose time has come. He fervently prayed for the adequate resources needed to complete the construction and emphasized the importance of seamless collaboration between the Odida Ogidi community and the project personnel. Stressing the significance of these prayers, he highlighted their role in ensuring the safety and success of the undertaking.
The presence of some community elders of the project and priests in solidarity further underscored the collective commitment towards the establishment of the technical institute. The site manager, Rev. Fr JohnPaul Uchendu (SDB) extended heartfelt appreciation to all those who showed immense support for the initiative, envisioning a future marked by excellence and opportunity for the teeming youth of the Archdiocese of Onitsha, Anambra state and beyond.
At the end of the event, some key personnel involved in the project spoke with Trinitas press.
Prof Frank Okafor, the Chairperson of the occasion, highlighted the institute’s potential as a hub for as a hub for technical and skills development center offering various opportunities. The project, he emphasized, represents a transformative milestone for the community, providing a pathway for the community, the congregation and the Archdiocese to harness the talents and aspirations of young individuals.
The Rector of the Community, Rev. Fr Donatus Ikeanyibe (SDB), further affirmed these sentiments, emphasizing the enduring commitment of the Archbishop and the collaborative spirit of the Salesians of Don Bosco congregation who are committed to empowering youths in their mission as bearers of God’s love for young people. He stressed the importance of Technical and Vocational Skills Development (TVSD) in Nigeria’s context, urging youth to embrace the institute as a source of opportunity and empowerment.
As construction commences, optimism abounds, with expectations high for the transformative impact of the new Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institute on the Archdiocesan educational trajectory. With steadfast determination and collaboration, the vision of Archbishop Valerian Okeke, the zeal of Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) congregation and the aspirations of the Odida Ogidi community are poised to become a reality.
