Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, has taken another bold step in strengthening student entrepreneurship by distributing ₦7 million in seed capital to 140 student business groups under the STEP-S programme of the Directorate of Entrepreneurship (DoE).
Speaking to the beneficiaries, the Director of the Directorate, Mr. Christopher Uwakwe explained that the funds will serve as startup capital to support the innovative business ideas developed by the students. Each group consists of five self-selected students and is required to focus on a primary Sustainable Development Goal, including SDGs 8 and 12, which promote decent work as well as responsible production and consumption.
Mr. Uwakwe encouraged the students to build products and services that are people-focused, environmentally responsible, and profitable. He emphasised that the university is not interested in sharing their profit; each group is only expected to return the seed capital while retaining their gains to expand their businesses.
He revealed that since the programme began in 2018, it has recorded an impressive loan repayment rate of over 95 percent. According to him, this success stems from the dedication of the students and the strength of the programme’s structure.
Mr. Uwakwe also noted that while entrepreneurship can be challenging, transparency remains key. In the rare cases where a group becomes inactive or funds go unaccounted for, the Directorate conducts thorough business forensics to understand what went wrong.
He highlighted that the STEP-S programme strengthens teamwork, group dynamism, and tolerance, which are essential ingredients for sustainable business. Many former beneficiaries have continued their ventures, with some expected to grow into full GOUNI alumni companies.
Mr. Uwakwe further announced that GOU will host a Town and Gown event on December 4, 2025, where students will showcase their ideas and attract potential investors. He also pointed to the university’s business incubation centre, which supports students in refining and developing their business concepts.
He encouraged members of staff to take greater interest in the programme by starting their own ventures or joining as trainers. He also credited the Vice-Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, whose vision led to the adoption of the STEP model at GOU. Today, Godfrey Okoye University remains the only university in West Africa implementing this model, even as more than 250 universities across Nigeria have applied to adopt it.
According to Mr. Uwakwe, the programme continues to equip students with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to build sustainable entrepreneurial careers, from identifying opportunities and designing marketing strategies to overcoming barriers and registering their businesses.
