It was a day of history, transformation, and celebration as forty-three (43) sons and daughters of Anam marked a significant milestone—graduating from the Industrial Skill Acquisition and Application Centre (ISAAC) at Onitsha Business School (OBS), Onitsha. Beyond their graduation, they were also inducted as members of the prestigious Institute of Industrial Management (MIIM), an honour that cements their place in the world of entrepreneurship and industrial development.
This achievement, however, was not a journey walked alone. It was made possible by the immense generosity of an illustrious son of Anam, Dr. Kenneth Nzegwu, FCA, whose unwavering commitment to youth empowerment turned what once seemed like a dream into reality. Dr. Nzegwu singlehandedly sponsored the forty-three (43) graduates, ensuring that each of them acquired the requisite skills to build sustainable businesses. The ISAAC training at Onitsha Business School costs a staggering four hundred and eighty thousand naira (₦480,000) per person, yet through his selfless intervention, these 43 Anam beneficiaries were trained free of charge.
The training, which commenced on August 4, 2024, was a rigorous yet rewarding journey. The graduates displayed immense dedication, overcoming logistical and financial challenges to ensure that they fully harnessed this golden opportunity. The Director-General of Onitsha Business School, Prof. Olusegun Sogbesan, alongside his expert faculty, did not just equip them with industrial and entrepreneurial skills but also instilled in them the principles of resilience, creativity, and business excellence.
Speaking on the significance of the program, the President of EYAF, Dr. Christopher Ejike Anekwe, remarked: “The impact of this training will not just be seen in the individual lives of the graduates but in Anam as a whole. It has fostered stronger bonds among participants, laying the foundation for a community-driven approach to economic growth.”
A significant highlight of the event was the financial empowerment extended to some of the graduates, reinforcing the commitment to not only train but also equip them to start their own businesses. Five graduates received a grant of five hundred thousand naira (₦500,000) each, while another beneficiary was awarded three hundred thousand naira (₦300,000). Additionally, one more person received two hundred thousand naira (₦200,000). The remaining graduates are eagerly awaiting further financial empowerment as earlier promised—a gesture that will ensure that each of them is positioned for success.
The graduation ceremony was graced by distinguished guests who came to celebrate this remarkable feat. The event had in attendance the Board of Trustees (BOT) of EYAF, represented by Barr. Victor Akazuo Nwakasi, who serves as the Secretary of the BOT. The Chairman of Anam People’s Assembly (APA) was also present, represented by Sir Chris Obiora, a former APA Secretary. The Anambra West Mayor’s Office was well represented through the Education Supervisor, Hon. Ikem Onyeka, while the Anam People’s Assembly Women Wing (APAWOW) was ably led by Hon. Mrs. T.U. Okoye. Their presence not only lent credibility to the occasion but also reaffirmed the shared vision of empowering Anam youth for a prosperous future.
Dr. Anekwe further emphasized the significance of this initiative: “The journey with Onitsha Business School has only just begun, and the future looks promising. The hope is that more sons and daughters of Anam will benefit from such life-changing training in the years to come. This initiative is not just about skill acquisition—it is about economic empowerment, community development, and setting a new standard for self-reliance in Anam.”
As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to greater opportunities, more collaborations, and an Anam where entrepreneurial success is not just a dream but a reality for all willing to take the leap.
“Long live, Anam! Long live EYAF! Long live Dr. Kenneth Nzegwu!”
