By Nsikak Udo
The Chairman of Dorben Group, Dr. A. B. Ekwere, has urged graduating students of ASACS International Staff School, Bwari, Abuja to prioritise skill acquisition, describing practical skills as essential for success in the today’s world.
Ekwere, who gave the charge on Friday at the school’s 23rd Graduation Ceremony, Speech and Prize-Giving Day for the 2025/2026 academic session, emphasised that academic qualifications alone were no longer sufficient in a rapidly changing world, stressing that practical skills had become the new normal for success.
“Success in today’s competitive world depends on value creation rather than academic certificates alone,” he stated. “Distinguish yourselves through hard work, integrity and a willingness to acquire practical skills.”
Presenting the Alumni goodwill message, the association’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ihejirika Samuel Uche, urged graduands to become worthy ambassadors of ASACS and Nigeria.
“The modern world rewards creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship alongside certificates,” he said.
Distinguished alumni honoured at the event included Mr. Ihejirika Samuel Uche, Miss Janet David and Miss Precious Orji.
The PTA Chairman, Engr. Marshall Ogedegbe, commended the school for its commitment to academic excellence and character development, pledging parents’ continued support.
An emotional moment came when the outgoing Head Girl, Miss Ebunu Dorcas, delivered the valedictory speech, encouraging her classmates to pursue excellence.
Awards and souvenirs were presented to exceptional students and staff, including Omoshola Peter who emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student in SS3, while Shaba Aisha of SS2 and Olalekan Gbemisola of SS1 were also honoured for academic excellence.
In a goodwill message from Pan African Comprehensive Secondary School, Uyo, another Dorben institution, the Principal, Mr. Aniebiet Udo, congratulated the graduands and lauded Dr and Mrs Ekwere for their “visionary investment in quality education across Nigeria.”
Top management officials present at the occasion included the Vice Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Doris Ekwere; Vice Chairman II, Mr. Ubong Ekwere; Rector, Mrs. Iyabo Uzu; and Director of Public Relations, Mr. Kareem Ola Akanbi.
Highpoint of the ceremony was the announcement by Dr Ekwere of a 50 percent tuition scholarship for all graduating students who gain admission into Dorben Polytechnic in Abuja, describing the gesture as part of Dorben Group’s commitment to accessible higher education.
The ceremony, held at the school’s pavilion, drew parents, alumni, dignitaries and well-wishers who gathered to honour graduating students and outstanding achievers amid cultural displays, choreography and optimism.
ASACS International Staff School is one of the flagship institutions under the Dorben Group, a conglomerate with interests in education, manufacturing, finance and real estate.
