Godfrey Okoye University Enugu has announced plans to introduce a new course on Financial Intelligence, covering financial planning, budgeting and financial management.
The Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, revealed this while flagging off the Entrepreneurship Day as part of activities marking the 13th Convocation of the university.
Addressing over five hundred student entrepreneurs who showcased their ideas, the Vice Chancellor said the convocation week was designed to celebrate students who have demonstrated strength in character and learning. He explained that the Marathon Day, Creativity Day and Entrepreneurship Day were structured to prepare students for life after school.
Rev. Fr. Prof. Anieke noted that Godfrey Okoye University goes beyond classroom teaching by funding students’ businesses and equipping them with practical knowledge on how to run and sustain enterprises. He emphasized that many students return their capital with profit, showing the effectiveness of the programme.
According to him, graduates of the institution have no reason to be poor, as the university equips them with hands-on skills to become job creators. He encouraged students to take entrepreneurship seriously and assured them that management will continue to recommend dedicated graduates for opportunities.
He appreciated the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Christian Nwachukwu Okeke, deans, directors, principal officers, friends of the university and students for their support and presence.
In his goodwill message, the Pro-Chancellor expressed delight at the success of the event, commended the Director of Entrepreneurship, Mr. Christopher Uwakwe, and invited the university community to his upcoming coronation as the traditional ruler of his community.
The CEO of Tribu Hotel, Chief Silas Uzo, applauded the university’s dedication to practical skills and described the initiative as a step in the right direction.
Earlier, the Director of Entrepreneurship, Mr. Uwakwe, said the event offered students an opportunity to present their business ideas. He encouraged guests to support and patronize the young entrepreneurs, stating that the programme aims to raise job creators rather than job seekers.
Students from various faculties later pitched business ideas requiring funding, with outstanding participants recognized for their creativity and performance.
Faculty Winners:
- 1st – Ihekweaba Kaosicho (Computing and Information Technology)
- 2nd – Ojukwu Promise (Natural Sciences and Environmental Studies)
- 3rd – Simon Favour Uchechukwu (Arts and Education)
STEP-S Winners:
- 1st – Paftrol Group
- 2nd – Max Trade
- 3rd – Knuts and Twits
Cash prizes included N50,000 for the best faculty pitch, N20,000 for the first runner-up and N10,000 for the second runner-up.
STEP-S winners received N100,000, N70,000 and N50,000 respectively.
Dignitaries present included the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Dean of Postgraduate School, Prof. Sergius Udeh; the Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Peace Ike; the Chairperson of the Senate Ceremonies Committee, Lynda Ugwuona; and the Director of Competitions, Mrs. Uchanta Chukwu.
In a related address on the same day, the Spiritual Director of the university, Rev. Fr. Theophilus Ndulue, urged students to build their future on strong ideas capable of standing the test of time and growing beyond local boundaries.
He reminded them that entrepreneurship often starts small, but with discipline, teamwork and commitment, small ideas can grow into successful ventures.
Rev. Fr. Ndulue encouraged students to apply the knowledge they receive, stressing that mistakes and failures are part of the journey and not the end. He expressed confidence that the ideas nurtured today will grow stronger and clearer with time.
Godfrey Okoye University continues to champion practical education, innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit that prepares students for success on the global stage.
