The founder of the Nkwachukwukwelu Charity Foundation, Chief Patrick Chukwudubem Muokwue, has reiterated the importance of education and hard work as key drivers of success. This message was delivered during the foundation’s outreach to selected schools in Umuoji community, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State.
Through the foundation, over 1,000 schoolchildren benefited from donations of educational materials such as school bags, exercise books, erasers, pencils, and pens. Additionally, school fees were paid for some indigent pupils. The schools visited included Our Lady’s Primary School, Ugwumba Memorial Primary School, and Dimechem Primary School, all located in Umuoji.
Addressing the pupils, Chief Muokwue emphasized the value of hard work, education, and staying away from negative influences. He inspired them with the slogan, “I know I can be what I want to be, only if I work hard at it.” He further advised: “Hold on to your dreams and work hard because the sky is your limit. Pray for your parents to succeed so they can support your education.”
Rev. Fr. Paul Ejikeme, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish and proprietor of Our Lady’s Primary School, commended the foundation’s gesture, describing it as an act of practical Christianity.
“Many of the children in this school come from very poor families, and their parents struggle to pay fees. This support is a huge relief for us. We pray for God to bless Chief Muokwue and his team for this selfless act,” he said.
The same exercise was carried out at Ugwumba Memorial Primary School and Dimechem Primary School, where the pupils also received refreshments. The head teachers of the schools, Mrs. Angelina Okeke and Mrs. Chidiebere Nwafor, expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the gesture as timely and impactful.
In an interview, Chief Muokwue revealed that the foundation, registered in 2023, aims to support 5,000 schoolchildren with educational materials.
“January is often challenging for parents as they struggle to pay school fees and provide materials for their children, especially after the yuletide season. We felt this was the right time to assist,” he said.
He explained that his decision to start the project in Umuoji stems from the belief that charity begins at home. He added that the foundation plans to extend its outreach to other rural areas, focusing on the neglected and underserved.
“This initiative is purely service to humanity, devoid of politics. It is funded entirely from my personal resources. I am passionate about philanthropy, as it brings me fulfillment,” Chief Muokwue stated.
Reflecting on his motivation, he recalled his father, Chief Francis Muokwue, Ichie Egbojiaku of Umuoji, who was known for his philanthropy, including building houses and supporting others in his community.
“Perhaps I’m taking after him,” Chief Muokwue concluded, while encouraging friends, family, and other organizations to support such worthy causes.
