The Nsukka cultural and political zone of Enugu State has unanimously and officially established the Adada Education Foundation which has been described as significant step towards fostering human capital development within Nsukka.
South East Reporters gathered that the Nsukka people spread across six Local Government Areas of Igbo-Etiti, Udenu, Uzo-Uwani, Nsukka, Igboeze North and Igboeze South make up the Adada Land.
The Chairman of the occasion, Prof Osy Okanya revealed the vision of the Adada Education Foundation, explaining its philanthropic mission to provide quality education, drive economic transformation, and empower individuals within the Adada community on both national and global scales.
Prof Osita Ogbu, a keynote speaker stressed the importance of practical service in effecting real change, drawing inspiration from visionary leaders like Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.
Dr Chinedu Onu, Chairman, Board, Adada Education Foundation while on the historical significance and vision for the development of the Nsukka communities, expressed concerns about the underutilization of various platforms in Nsukka and emphasized the need to unite under the theme ‘from Ike Otu Onye to Igwebuike’ to foster growth and capacity building among the ‘Igbo Nsukka’.
Onu who highlightes the extreme potential of the Nsukka populace, called for collective support to achieve the goal of the Foundation.
He went on to propose a sustainable funding model, suggesting that with the commitment of 500 individuals from each of the seven local governments in Nsukka Senatorial Zone contributing ₦100,000 annually, the foundation could amass a substantial sum of ₦350,000,000 to sponsor educational initiatives every year.
Onu equally revealed that the Foundation’s Board of Directors had engaged with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria (UNN), Polycarp Chigbu, to explore collaboration opportunities, including discounted tuition fees for Adada students and the establishment of an entrepreneurship and innovation center for vocational training in cutting-edge fields such as mechatronics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.
He further disclosed plans for partnerships with educational bodies like the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and an equipment manufacturing company in China.
He said such partnership will be to enhance the educational offerings of the Adada Education Foundation, adding that foundation aims to serve as a beacon of career guidance for Nsukka youth, fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance.
Onu hinted the importance of fostering a spirit of daring and enterprise among the Nsukka people, urging unity and collaboration to propel the community towards educational excellence and self-sufficiency.
He further announced the development of an app to streamline the foundation’s operations and ensure transparency in student selection and fund allocation.
Ọnụ in a bid to ensure accountability, detailed plans to establish dedicated accounts in local microfinance banks for tuition fee transactions only, with funds disbursed directly to educational institutions.
He further underscored the foundation’s commitment to supporting talented scholars from Nsukka in pursuing advanced degrees abroad, showcasing a holistic approach to educational empowerment by the foundation.
Some stakeholders told South East Reporters that the launch of the Adada Education Foundation marks a significant milestone in the quest to transform Nsukka into a hub of educational excellence and opportunity.
They underscored the foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and independence, ensuring that no external influence can sway its mission or operations.
The stakeholders urged the Nsukka communities to rally behind the Adada Education Foundation, spreading the word and encouraging participation to maximize its impact.
Others called on the foundation to set its sights on empowering the next generation of Nsukka leaders, and went further to call for unity, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to the cause of educational advancement.
Godfrey Onah, Bishop of Nsukka Catholic Diocese praised the visionary leadership of Chinedu Onu, highlighting the transformative impact of the foundation on the Nsukka community.
Igwe Samuel Asadu on behalf of all Igwes in Nsukka Senatorial Zone, pledged their support for the foundation and emphasized the need for embracing change and adding value to the community.
The Local Government Chairmen in Enugu North Senatorial Zone reiterated their commitment to education, citing it as a core aspect of their manifestos.
Deputy Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Ezenta Ezeani drew parallels with the 1961 Apollo-11 Mission in the United States, emphasizing the power of collective effort and the significant benefits the foundation will bring to the Nsukka community.
He called on the people of Nsukka to not only support financially but also become advocates for the foundation’s mission.
Archbishop of Enugu Ecclesiastical Province, Sosthenes Eze echoed his support for the foundation, recognizing its transformative potential in bridging the gap between the rich and the poor.
