In what can only be described as a milestone in education and community development, Jonas Ifinta, a philanthropist and businessman, unveiled a modern two-story school complex at the All Saints International Technical College (ASITEC) in Awgbu on January 2, 2025.
This transformative project, dedicated to skill acquisition, is a shining example of how Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative is delivering real results across Anambra State.
The newly inaugurated facility, fully funded and donated by Ifinta, is designed to serve as a workshop hub where students can acquire practical, technical skills. This is part of a broader effort to address the long-standing gap between theoretical learning and real-world problem-solving in Nigeria’s education system.
Speaking at the event, Ifinta highlighted the critical need for technical education in Nigeria.
“I have always been fascinated by technical skills,” he said. “The major issue with education in Nigeria is that the current curriculum doesn’t transfer practical skills. As a result, graduates remain unemployed, while employers struggle to find skilled workers. By God’s grace, this new school complex will equip students with practical skills, making them assets to society upon graduation.”
The dedication ceremony was officiated by Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor, who praised Ifinta for his resilience and generosity in completing the project despite economic challenges. “Jonas Ifinta is a true champion of development,” Bishop Ezeokafor said. “His vision for technical education will forever be a legacy tied to Awgbu’s progress.”
The Parish Priest of All Saints Catholic Church, which oversees the school, assured the audience of the institution’s commitment to its founding mission of nurturing excellence in education and skills acquisition.
Adding to the momentum, the Chairman of the occasion, Alloysius Okoye, lauded Ifinta’s outstanding contribution and announced a personal donation of ₦1 million to support the school’s infrastructure and equipment needs. Other generous contributions included ₦5 million from Engr. Agodi Egwuonwu to cover teachers’ salaries for five years and €3,000 from Reverend Father Innocent Nwafor, alongside €1,000 raised from his friends, to enhance teachers’ welfare.
The event was attended by an impressive array of dignitaries, including the President-General of the Awgbu Progress Union, Engr. Chris Okoyeudor, the Chief of Staff to Governor Soludo, Ernest Ezeajughi, representatives from the Ministry of Education, Emmanuel Akidi, members of the Diamond Club, and other community leaders.
Governor Soludo’s PPCP framework, which emphasizes collaboration between government, private investors, and the community, continues to prove its value in driving sustainable development across Anambra. The unveiling of this school complex not only underscores the success of this model but also inspires a wave of optimism about the future of technical education in the state.
With this initiative, Awgbu is not just creating skilled graduates but also fostering a culture of self-reliance and entrepreneurship, cementing its place as a cornerstone of progress in Anambra State.
