“We are giving back to the society.” Chinedu Okoro.

Mr Chinedu Okoro, a fast rising leader,  youthful Akalite and the president of Umuaka Youth Association Tri-State Branch (New Jersey, New York and Connecticut spoke with Umuaka Times American correspondent last week on the scholarship program and other youth empowerment programs of his organization back home in Nigeria.

Excerpts:

Good after Mr Chinedu Okoro, it has been a while. How are you doing today?

I am fine and you. It has indeed been a long time.

Umuaka Times has been reliably informed about the program your organization has for students at Girls Secondary Technical School Umuaka. Please what inspired this noble cause?

This initiative was inspired by the desire of the Umuaka Youth Association Tri-State Branch to give back to their community and empower the younger generation through education. The organization believes that education is a powerful tool for transformation and that supporting students will inspire academic excellence, reduce financial burdens, and create meaningful opportunities for the future of Umuaka.

How did you arrive at the choice of Girls Technical School?

Umuaka Girls Technical School was selected through a unanimous decision made by the organization. The school was chosen due to its commitment to training young women with both academic and technical skills, making it a suitable place to invest in future female leaders and innovators.

Is the scholarship for secondary school or university?

The scholarship is specifically for secondary school students. It is designed to support students at Umuaka Girls Technical School by covering essential academic-related expenses.

When you say Top 20, do you mean final year students?

Yes. The Top 20 refers to the highest-performing students, specifically the top 10 students in Junior Secondary 3 (JS3) and the top 10 students in Senior Secondary 3 (SS3). The scholarship will support their exam fees, recognizing their hard work and motivating others to strive for academic excellence.

What is the duration of the scholarship?

The scholarship is set to cover the students’ final examination period, beginning in January 2026. It is a one-time academic scholarship for this phase but may serve as the foundation for future scholarship cycles depending on available resources and continued support from the association.

Each scholarship covers what and what?

Each scholarship will cover: Examination fees (such as WAEC or JAMB), certificates and recognition materials awarded to the scholarship recipients. Additional support, such as mentorship, guidance, or learning materials, may also be included as part of the broader Youth Empowerment initiative.

Why the focus on the girl-child only?

The focus on girls is intentional to promote gender equality and empower the girl child, who often faces more barriers to education in society. By supporting female students at the Girls Technical School, the association aims to build confident, educated, and skilled young women who can contribute positively to their families, communities, and the world.

Thank you very much for your time and Umuaka Times wishes you well.

Thanks a lot too. Umuaka Times is doing great.