A United States-based medical professional and philanthropist, Egwu Cletus Oduburu, has urged 30 newly selected beneficiaries of the Egwu Cletus and Cecilia (EC&C) Foundation Scholarship in Ebonyi State to remain hardworking, disciplined, and committed to academic excellence.
Speaking during the 2026 EC&C Foundation Scholarship Award and Disbursement Ceremony held in Ebushike, Ogboji, Ezza North Local Government Area, Oduburu described education as a powerful tool for overcoming poverty, ignorance, and social inequality.
The scholarship programme supported 30 undergraduate students drawn from communities across Ezza North and other parts of Ebonyi State after what he described as a transparent and merit-based selection process.
Oduburu encouraged the beneficiaries to value the opportunity and use it to improve their lives, support their families, and contribute positively to society.
“This scholarship is more than financial support. It is an investment in your future and a vote of confidence in your potential. Stay focused, remain humble, and strive for excellence,” he said.
The US-based nurse also appealed to the Ebonyi State Government, private organisations, and development partners to provide employment opportunities for graduates who previously benefited from the foundation’s scholarship programme.
According to him, 22 beneficiaries have already completed their university education, but many remain unemployed despite their qualifications.
He stressed that while education opens doors, sustainable employment is necessary to help graduates maximise their potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Oduburu called on government agencies, business leaders, philanthropists, and corporate organisations to partner with the foundation in creating jobs for qualified graduates.
Oduburu explained that the EC&C Foundation was established to identify academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students and help them complete higher education.
He noted that personal experiences of financial hardship inspired the initiative, which has grown from a family project into a foundation dedicated to developing future leaders.
He encouraged the new beneficiaries to remember the support they received and extend similar opportunities to others after achieving success in their respective careers.
“We believe these students will become doctors, engineers, teachers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, public servants, and other professionals who will make meaningful contributions to society,” he added.
Oduburu also praised Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for expanding access to education through local and international scholarship programmes.
He said the administration’s investment in education demonstrates a commitment to the long-term development of the state and urged the government to sustain the initiative.
Secretary of the scholarship screening committee, Chief Patrick Igwe, warned beneficiaries that involvement in cultism, examination malpractice, or other anti-social activities could lead to the withdrawal of their scholarships.
He advised students to maintain strong academic performance and exemplary conduct to remain in the programme.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, and the Commissioner for Intergovernmental Affairs and Donor Agencies, Ikechukwu Igweazi, commended Oduburu for supporting educational development in Ebonyi State.
They urged the scholarship recipients to stay focused on their studies, avoid distractions, and justify the confidence reposed in them.
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