The atmosphere was that of joy and accomplishment as Years twelve and nine Students of Jose-Maria Academy, Awka, class of 2024 celebrated their graduation for final year of their Senior and Junior secondary school respectively.
The event which held at the premises of the Academy in Awka, attracted students, teachers, parents, friends, well wishers and had Master Miguel Nnadumaka as the Best graduating Student Year twelve, Alexander Nebolisa of Year ten emerged overall Best for Senior Category while Adaobi Ugokwe of Year seven emerged overall Best for Junior Category.
The ceremony featured presentation of certificates to the graduating Students, awards, choir rendition, ballet, songs, poem, dance, drama among other side attractions.
In her farewell message, the Director and Founder of the Academy, Mrs Nkechi Ononiba said that her heart swells with pride and admiration for each and every of the graduands as they bid farewell to the walls of Jose-Maria Academy where they have grown, learned, and formed friendships that will last a lifetime.
She told them that as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, they should remember that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to, believe in themselves, trust in their abilities and never lose sight of their dreams.
For the Principal of the Academy, Mrs Chinelo Ikechukwu -James, she is filled with immense pride and heartfelt emotions as the graduands mark the end of their journey at the school which she said is both of celebration and reflection.
She noted that as they step into the next chapter of their lives, they should be reminded of the values and lessons they have learnt in the school and carry with them the integrity, kindness and respect that they have demonstrated within the walls of the school.
The Chairman on the occasion and a parent, Mr Kelechi Ihekoromadu, expressed gratitude to God for their children, to parents that have strived and went out of their ways to make these children have a life.
He urged them to embrace the future with courage, curiosity and sense of purpose.
In his valedictory speech, the Valedictorian and Best Graduating Student Year twelve, Master Nnadumaka, appreciated their parents, teachers who molded them, congratulated his fellow graduands and described education as the most powerful weapon which one can use to change the world, reminding them that as they venture into the world, they should embrace the opportunities ahead with courage and optimism even as they strive to make positive impact and remain lifelong learners.
In an interview, the mother of the Best graduating Student, Mrs Chibuzo Nnadumaka said she feels overwhelmed with happiness for having her son emerged the best saying training of children entails hard work, commitment which should start from the cradle and appreciated the teachers for their inputs in the children.