In a boost for education in Abia State, the non-governmental organisation Grooming People for Better Livelihood Centre has completed a large-scale renovation of St. Peter’s Secondary School in Awomnuzie, Ikwuano Local Government Area.
The initiative has transformed the school with state-of-the-art classrooms, advanced science labs, and modern digital learning tools, which leaders hope will improve educational opportunities for local students.
Founded in 2006, Grooming People for Better Livelihood Centre is known for its work in financially supporting Nigeria’s economically active poor, but its mission extends well beyond financial aid.
By investing in education, Grooming Centre aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for economic independence. The renovation at St. Peter’s Secondary School is one of several education-focused initiatives the NGO has supported.
At the handover ceremony, Dr. Godwin Nwabunka, Founder and CEO of Grooming People for Better Livelihood Centre, emphasized the organization’s commitment to community empowerment through education. “Empowering communities goes beyond providing financial services,” he stated. “It’s about shaping a future where poverty is reduced through education and opportunity. We believe that every child, regardless of background, deserves access to quality education. That’s why initiatives like this are at the heart of what we do.”
The project, completed in collaboration with the Catholic Diocese of Umuahia, involved renovating classrooms and equipping laboratories for physics, chemistry, and biology. The school now also features a computer lab and new administrative offices. Interactive whiteboards, projectors, and other digital tools are part of the upgrades, creating an environment designed to prepare students for a technology-driven world.
Speaking on behalf of the Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ukpong, Bishop of Umuahia, praised the organization’s commitment to empowering youth. “The management of Grooming Centre, led by Dr. Godwin Nwabunka, has provided students with an enabling environment that nurtures future leaders,” he said. “Their dedication to quality education is making a huge impact on the lives of these students, and we are grateful.”
Other projects by the organization include the Lady Kate Okafor Scholarship Scheme, an initiative offering scholarships to 931 secondary school students across Lagos. This program, now in its eighth year, funds Senior Secondary School fees for deserving Junior Secondary students, providing a foundation for them to pursue higher education and career opportunities.
Through scholarships and initiatives like the school renovation in Abia, Grooming People for Better Livelihood Centre continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering educational development in Nigeria.