Anambra Student Appeals for Support to Pursue University Dream After Years of Waiting
Chizaram Anastasia, a twenty-one-year-old resident of Aguta Local Government in Anambra State, has made a heartfelt appeal to well-meaning Nigerians and organizations for financial assistance to further her education at the tertiary level. Despite completing her secondary school education in 2019, Chizaram has faced significant financial hurdles that have kept her from pursuing her academic aspirations.
Financial Constraints Hinder Educational Progress
The young lady comes from a family of six, with her single mother struggling to cater to the household's needs. Chizaram revealed that her mother lacks the financial means to sponsor her university education, a situation that has left her in limbo since graduating from New Era Girls' Secondary School in Onitsha. This school, located at Omagba Phase 1, provided her with a foundation, but the dream of higher education remains unfulfilled due to economic challenges.
"I graduated in the year 2019. I have not been able to further my studies because I don't have anyone to support me, but I wish to go to school," Chizaram stated in an exclusive interview. Her determination to break what she describes as a family jinx is palpable, as no one in her immediate family has yet acquired a university degree.
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Academic Ambitions
Not one to sit idle, Chizaram has ventured into the pastries business under the brand name Zara Delicious Pastries and Treats. She has also engaged in various hustles to make ends meet, including selling abacha, beans, plantain, corn, and hawking goods at the Relief Market. Currently, she focuses on baking and producing yoghurt, hoping that support for her business could eventually fund her education.
"If my brand goes viral and I can get support for my business, I will save enough money and use it to further my education. I don't have any family relatives who can sponsor me to university," she explained. This dual approach highlights her resilience and practical mindset in the face of adversity.
Aspirations to Study Anatomy at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University
Chizaram's academic goal is clear: she aims to study Anatomy at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Anambra. Her interest in the subject stems from a deep curiosity about the human body and its functions. "I'm curious about how the human body works, and studying anatomy helps me understand that deeply. Plus, it opens doors to careers in medicine, research, or teaching," she shared.
She envisions a future working in hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacies, or even teaching biology as a lecturer. To take the first step, Chizaram plans to register for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) this year, marking a proactive move towards her dream despite the financial barriers.
Broader Context of Educational Challenges in Nigeria
Chizaram's story is not isolated; it reflects a broader issue of access to higher education in Nigeria, where many bright students are sidelined due to economic hardships. Her appeal underscores the need for community and institutional support to help aspiring scholars overcome such obstacles. By sharing her journey, she hopes to inspire action and empathy from those who can make a difference in her life and education.
In summary, Chizaram Anastasia represents the untapped potential in Nigeria's youth, combining entrepreneurial effort with academic ambition. Her call for support is a testament to her determination to transform her circumstances and achieve a university education, setting a precedent for her family and community.
