Old students of Queen of the Rosary College (QRC), Onitsha, Abuja Chapter have honoured five prominent Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to the growth and development of the country.
The women who were given the Selfless Service Award, at the launch of the Abuja chapter of the association are Senator Joy Emodi, Justice Mary Peter Odili; Senator Hope Uzodinma; Chief Gordian Oranika; Chief Charles A. Mbanefo and Dr. (Mrs.) Marian Ali.
The chairperson, QRC alumnae, Abuja chapter, Barr. Roseline Nwosu, in her welcome address said it became imperative for the alumnae members to strengthen unity and friendship that had existed amongst them for decades.
She said the national leadership of the alumnae, had during the diamond jubilee celebration earlier in October at the school premises in Onitsha, Anambra State, directed all state chapters to replicate same to strengthen bonds of friendship and discuss sustainable way forward for the school.
“This, perhaps, informed our gathering as Abuja alumnae members, so we could freely interact with each other and also discuss matters that concern our individual welfare and our former school, which we are all proud to be identified with,” she said.
She was impressed that her former school mates have continued to blaze the trail in virtually every sector of Nigerian economy, which, according to her, was a function of the good education and moral training they received from the school.
Chairman of the occasion, Senator David Mark, said he was impressed with the strength, unity and love, that had existed among the former school mates, which, he said, was responsible for the individual and collective growth recorded thus far in the school.
He challenged them to keep up with the good work, as it will go a long way in bridging the gap between the ex students of the school and current students as well as the management.
“I did not pass through QRC because it was not a mixed school, but I am very impressed with the concept and your achievements thus far, as well as the impact you have made in and out of the school. I am left with the only option of supporting you wholeheartedly,” he said.
Mark, who was the immediate past Senate President, encouraged the ex-QRC students to freely approach him if need be, for him to help them in one way or another to achieve whatever laudable goals they have set for themselves and the school.
An awardee, Senator Joy Emodi, was grateful to God and the school for the educational foundation she received from the school, hence her commitment to any good cause for the school.
She said the award was an encouragement for her to re-dedicate herself to the service of God and humanity through education which, she said, is the bedrock of development.