The Egwu Cletus and Cecilia Oduburu (EC&C) Foundation has awarded scholarships to 30 undergraduates for the 2026 award. The beneficiaries are from different communities in Ezza North and other parts of Ebonyi State.
Speaking during the disbursement in Ebushike, Ogboji, Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, the founder of the foundation, Egwu Cletus Oduburu, charged the beneficiaries to work hard and make the most of the opportunity to become useful to themselves, their families, and society.
He also urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and humble, describing education as one of the greatest weapons against poverty, ignorance, and inequality.
Oduburu, a United States-based medical expert, disclosed that the beneficiaries emerged through a rigorous and transparent selection process. He assured them that the foundation would continue to support them in pursuing their dreams.
Oduburu appealed to the Ebonyi State Government to employ 20 beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme who have graduated from various universities but remain unemployed.
"Over the years, this foundation has successfully sponsored 22 young men and women through various institutions. Unfortunately, many of them are still unemployed despite their qualifications. This reminds us that education alone is only part of the solution. Employment and economic opportunities are equally important.
"Therefore, I respectfully appeal to the Government of Ebonyi State, government agencies, private organizations, business leaders, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to partner with us by creating employment opportunities for these graduates.
"Together, we can transform scholarship recipients into productive professionals who will contribute meaningfully to our society," he said.
Oduburu, a nurse, said he founded the foundation to identify brilliant but financially disadvantaged young people and assist them in pursuing higher education.
"We understand what it means to struggle. We know what it feels like to have dreams delayed because of financial limitations. Those experiences inspired us to ensure that deserving students do not abandon their education simply because they cannot afford it. By the grace of God, this vision has continued to grow.
"What began as a personal family initiative has now evolved into the Egwu Cletus and Cecilia Oduburu (EC&C) Foundation, a platform committed to nurturing dreams, building future leaders, and creating opportunities for young people to succeed.
"Today, we are proud to support 30 new beneficiaries who now join the growing EC&C family. To our beneficiaries, I want you to remember this: this scholarship is not merely financial assistance; it is an investment in your future. It is a vote of confidence in your potential. We believe in you.
"We believe that one day you will become doctors, engineers, teachers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, public servants, and leaders who will positively impact society. When that day comes, remember to lift others just as someone has lifted you today. Education remains one of the greatest weapons against poverty, ignorance, and inequality," he said.
He commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for expanding educational opportunities through local and international scholarship programmes.
According to him, "His administration has demonstrated that investing in education is investing in the future of Ebonyi State. We commend these efforts and encourage their continued expansion."
Earlier, the Secretary of the Scholarship Screening Committee, Chief Patrick Igwe, warned that the foundation would withdraw the scholarship of any beneficiary involved in anti-social behaviour.
He urged the beneficiaries to remain committed to their studies to retain the scholarship or risk being dropped from the scheme.
In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh, and the Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution, Chief Ikechukwu Igweazi, commended Oduburu for complementing the efforts of Governor Francis Nwifuru in advancing education in the state.
They advised the beneficiaries to remain focused on their studies, avoid distractions, and strive for academic excellence.
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