The Egbu Girls Old Girls Association (EGOGA) has commenced the construction of a modern dormitory complex valued at over ₦300 million, marking a major milestone in its ongoing efforts to give back to its alma mater.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the first phase of the project was conducted by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Geoffrey Okorafor, proprietor of the school, and witnessed by executive members of the association, including Lady Barrister Stella Amamasi, Hon. Justice Vicky Isiguzo, Barr. Ethel Echebima, Dame Irene Duru, and Lady Kalaya Opara, the school’s principal and an alumna. Also in attendance were staff and students of the school.
According to the association, the modern dormitory aims to enhance security, accommodation, and the overall learning environment for students, while also encouraging more students to embrace boarding life.
The Global President of EGOGA, Mrs. Ijeoma Enekwa, said the project was inspired by the students’ academic resilience despite poor infrastructure.
“If, in spite of the dilapidated buildings, our students still win international competitions, imagine what they can achieve with improved dormitories, a conducive environment, and better facilities,” she stated.
The association has over the years implemented several development projects for the school. During its first global reunion, EGOGA fenced the dormitory area for security, constructed a gate and signage, and provided new washrooms and toilets. Class sets also donated a kitchen, laboratory equipment, mattresses, water tanks, and notebooks.
At the second global reunion, which coincided with the school’s 60th anniversary, the association produced a compendium to raise funds for the dormitory project and conducted a full survey of the proposed site. Recently, the North American Chapter renovated a classroom block, with plans underway to equip it fully.
Mrs. Enekwa disclosed that the association hopes to raise more funds before and during the upcoming reunion to complete the first phase of the dormitory before embarking on the second phase.
“Individuals can take up the construction of a chalet and brand it in their name or in honour of a family member,” she added.
The 3rd Global Reunion of EGOGA is scheduled to be held between December 18 and 21, featuring the Winifred Hubbard Lecture, named after the school’s pioneering principal. This year’s reunion theme is “Mentorship for Girl Child Safety and Empowerment.”
Prominent members of EGOGA include Mrs. Lizzy Ebi, Nigeria’s first female stockbroker; Dame Comfort Obi, publisher of The Source Magazine; and Her Excellency Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former first lady of Ondo State, among other distinguished alumnae across Nigeria and the diaspora.