By Ovat Abeng
The 2025 edition of the Day of the African Child was marked in grand style at Irene Menakaya Schools, Onitsha, with the unveiling of the Rt. Hon. Prof. Philip Phinn African Cultural Day Initiative, a platform designed to spotlight the education and welfare of the Igbo child through global engagement and cultural advocacy.
The event, which held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, drew wide participation from educational administrators, traditional leaders, stakeholders, teachers, and students from various schools within and outside Anambra State.
The Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, was duly represented by Dr. Chinenye B. Amaonye, who led a delegation of scholars including Dr. Edith Onyeka, Dr. Victoria Mbonu, and Sr. Dr. Judith Okafor.
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In a speech presented on behalf of the Dean, Faculty of Education, NAU, Prof. Ebele Okigbo, Dr. Amaonye commended the school management for its commitment to advancing the cause of African children. She also received a cheque of ₦100,000 proposed endowment initiative for the faculty, presented by the school as part of its proposed endowment initiative.
While commending the School for the initiative, on behalf of the dean, Amaonye pledged the committment to preserving igbo cultural heritage through education, and that the faculty is pleased to be a part of this initiative.
Delivering her keynote titled “Planning, Budgeting, and Pact for the Future of the Igbo Child”, Dr. Amaonye highlighted the urgent need for intentional planning and data-driven budgeting that prioritize early childhood education. She noted that despite advocacy, many African nations still fall short of the recommended investment in children’s education, health, and social inclusion.
She emphasized that beyond policy pronouncements, there must be a structured pact between governments, civil society, and the private sector, one that safeguards the holistic development of African children and upholds their right to quality education, especially for the Igbo child.
According to her, “Planning must be proactive and inclusive, budgeting must be child-centered, and there must be a moral and social pact to give every child a future to hope for.”
The Rt. Hon. Prof. Philip Phinn African Cultural Day Initiative, as explained by the organizers, was inspired by the school’s motto, “My Child is My Pride,” and aligns with the spirit of the 2023 United Nations Pact for the Future Summit. The initiative seeks to promote academic excellence, cultural awareness, and global visibility for the Igbo child, while providing a platform for educational dialogue and outreach.
Guests were entertained with vibrant cultural displays, traditional songs, and poetry recitations reflecting the heritage and aspirations of African children.
