A brilliant student from Ebonyi State, Paul Ifechukwu Ejem, has become the subject of public discussion after recording outstanding academic achievements but facing withdrawal of family support for his education.
Paul scored an impressive 342 in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and earned 8 distinctions in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
However, his pursuit of higher education was threatened when his family decided to stop funding his studies following his decision to drop out of the seminary to chase his personal dreams.
In a twist of hope, Alex Onyia, a renowned education advocate and founder of ISEE, has stepped in to sponsor Paul’s education.
Onyia, while announcing the sponsorship, said:
“We cannot allow such brilliance to waste. Through ISEE, we will sponsor Paul’s education and ensure his dreams are not cut short.”
Over the years, Onyia has been at the forefront of educational reforms, mentorship programs, and scholarships for underprivileged but gifted students. His intervention in Paul’s case has been widely applauded as a lifeline for a student whose future might have been derailed.
Paul’s story shines a spotlight on the challenges many young Nigerians face in pursuing education, especially when personal choices clash with family expectations. It also underscores the critical role of community and private sector support in nurturing future leaders.
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