News Editor
By David Odama
The 29th graduation ceremony of Rita Pacis College, Garki, Abuja, on Friday, July 25, 2025, was a colourful and inspiring event as the Class of 2025—fondly called The Orion Class—was charged to uphold good conduct, lead with purpose, and make a lasting positive impact on society.
The celebration began with a thanksgiving Mass in the school chapel, attended by parents, dignitaries, and well-wishers. The homily, delivered by the school Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Joseph Obada, urged the graduating students to remain true to the values instilled in them during their formative years. He reminded them that true success is not measured by wealth but by the number of lives they touch positively.
In her address, the Principal of the college, Rev. Sr. Mary-Aloysius Omunegbuchulam, DDL, PhD, congratulated the Class of 2025 for demonstrating resilience, brilliance, and adaptability in the face of challenges. She recalled how the students overcame disruptions during their academic journey, including the emotional toll and technical difficulties of remote learning during the COVID-19 lockdowns, yet emerged stronger and more determined.
“You have seized every opportunity presented to you during your time here. You have worked tirelessly—burning the midnight oil, balancing academics with sports, arts, and service. Today, you are not just leaving with certificates, but with character, integrity, and resilience,” she said.
Rev. Sr. Omunegbuchulam emphasized this year’s graduation theme, “Empowered to Lead, Inspired to Succeed,” urging the students to live out the values of leadership, goal-setting, and responsibility. She outlined four guiding principles for their journey ahead: lifelong curiosity, courageous compassion, ethical stewardship, and grateful reflection.
“In your hands rests the promise of a more just and peaceful Nigeria. Whether you pursue medicine, engineering, the arts, or public service, let integrity and kindness define your path,” she advised.
The Principal also thanked the parents for their unwavering support, sacrifices, and trust in the college, while commending the teachers and staff for their dedication to nurturing future leaders. She called for collective efforts to upgrade the school’s facilities, particularly by donating desktop computers to prepare students for future computer-based examinations such as the WAEC CBT.
The guest speaker, Rev. Fr. (Prof.) Hyacinth Njoku, Vice Chancellor of Veritas University, urged the students to dream big and exercise discipline. He reminded them that education is a privilege, noting that millions of Nigerian youths have no access to formal schooling.
The event was further enlivened by an orchestra performance, unveiling of the yearbook, prize presentations, and a valedictory speech by Chikamara Obinna-Chukwu. A fundraising initiative led by the Chairman of the Occasion raised over ₦20 million to purchase additional computers for the college.
