Obi Advocates Greater Investment in Education, Healthcare at CWC Convocation

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has reiterated that education and healthcare remain the most reliable pathways to national development, stressing that Nigeria cannot move from a consumption-driven economy to a productive one without sustained investment in human capital.

Mr. Obi made the assertion at the Maiden Convocation and Third Matriculation Ceremony of the Central Washington College (CWC) of Nursing Sciences and Health Technology, Enugu. He was represented at the event by Prof. Patrick Obi.

According to him, higher education must go beyond the acquisition of certificates and focus on developing critical thinking, integrity, professional discipline, innovation, and character among young people.

He said educational institutions must be positioned as centres of innovation, research, and ethical leadership capable of producing graduates who can compete effectively in the global economy.

“Education and healthcare are the foundation of every productive society. No nation can achieve sustainable growth if it neglects the development of its people. We must deliberately invest in knowledge, skills, and human capacity if we are to build a prosperous future,” Obi stated.

He warned that countries that fail to prioritise education and healthcare risk widening poverty levels and limiting opportunities for future generations.

The event marked a major milestone for the institution with the graduation of its pioneer set of 236 healthcare professionals, comprising 200 graduates from the College of Nursing Sciences and 36 graduates from the College of Health Sciences. The college also matriculated 128 new students, including 65 admitted into Nursing Sciences and 63 into Health Sciences and Technology programmes.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President and Founder of the institution, Prof. Augustine Uchenna Akubue, highlighted the remarkable growth of the college since its establishment on November 3, 2020.

Prof. Akubue noted that the institution has secured accreditation and approvals from the National Board for Technical Education and other relevant professional regulatory bodies, positioning it as a leading centre for healthcare education and training.

Mr. Obi commended the vision and commitment of the institution’s management, faculty, and governing council in providing quality infrastructure and training designed to produce globally competitive healthcare professionals.

Addressing the pioneer graduating class, he urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, competence, and ethical conduct as they begin their careers in the healthcare sector.

“To the graduating students, remember that your profession is not merely a career but a service to humanity. Let compassion, excellence, and integrity guide your practice wherever you find yourselves,” he said.

The ceremony was chaired by Chief Nnia Nwodo, while the Chairman of the Governing Board, Prof. Joseph Nwazi, delivered the keynote address. Also in attendance were the Provost of the college, Dr. Mrs. Veronica Chijioke Chiegeiro, parents, guardians, and stakeholders in the education and healthcare sectors.

Mr. Obi reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that advance education and healthcare development, describing investment in young people as the most effective route to building a productive, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.

Tags: #PeterObi #Education #Healthcare #Enugu #CWC #HumanCapitalDevelopment #Nigeria #Convocation