An Austria-based foundation, Help For All (HIFA), in collaboration with Justice, Development, and Peace Caritas (JDPC) of the Catholic Diocese of Awka, has awarded scholarships totaling 10 million naira to 85 indigent students from various denominations in Anambra State.

During the presentation ceremony held at the JDPC, Awka Diocese Secretariat within St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Awka, on Saturday, the Director of JDPC, Awka Diocese, and Chairman of the Anambra State HIFA Board, Rev. Fr. Levi Ukor, announced the partnership with HIFA Austria. He noted that the organization was established and funded by retired teachers in Austria.

Rev. Fr. Ukor disclosed that each beneficiary would receive N121,000. He explained that every year, they identify indigent students, thoroughly investigate their circumstances, and then compile and submit their names to HIFA Austria for funding.

“This program is an annual event that has empowered many indigent and gifted students,” Rev. Fr. Ukor stated. He added that the organization, co-founded by Adolf Pester and the late Rev. Fr. Aaron Ekwu, aims to support the poor and address gaps in infrastructure and other areas of need.

HIFA Austria is already active in six Nigerian states, continuously providing humanitarian services. The beneficiaries were selected from various schools across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State, regardless of their religious or denominational affiliations. Applications for the scholarship are submitted by parents or guardians during monthly meetings.

Rev. Fr. Ukor expressed gratitude to the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, for his continued support and the opportunity to serve. He also thanked his team members and urged the students to use the scholarship funds wisely.

In their separate remarks, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, represented by the Education Secretary of Awka Diocese, Rev. Fr. Maximus Okonkwo, and the Chairman of JDPC, Awka Diocese, Hon. Paulinus Adinuba, encouraged the beneficiaries to value the scholarship and avoid actions that could jeopardize their futures.

Beneficiary students, Kizito Ebele, Onwuka Chikerem Pamela, and Chikezie Lawrence, expressed their gratitude to the foundation and the Catholic Diocese of Awka for the support, promising to use the funds appropriately.