By Chikaodi Chukwuleta

History was made as youths from 179 communities and 21 local government areas in Anambra State were on Monday, selected as role models.

The event was held at Dora Akunyili Women Development  Centre, Awka.

In his remarks, the chairman of the occasion, who is the President General, Ohanaze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra State Chapter, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu commended the leadership  of Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU)  for the initiative, adding that it will help to add values in the lives of the youths, communities and society at large.

The President General of ASATU, Comrade Ken Okoli, said the award was for those who have contributed  immensely to community development.

He added that the organisation wants to set the foundation straight based on the four core values of the state. ” It is the language of value people used to build their worlds. I am expecting  leaders to inculcate these values to their communities”.

Okoli emphasised on the need of people to know their constituents, noting that ASATU is now working with the youth and elders in harmony for the common good of the community.

“In every society, citizenship  is number one. When we know our own in the state and where we are living, we begin to pay attention to the the younger ones,” he concluded “.

Commending the governor of the state, Prof. Charles  Soludo, for his efforts in making education free, Okoli said the initiative had alleviated the pains of those who could not afford to send their children to school.

” Our responsibility  as young people is to make sure that education that is  compulsory and free will be enforced.”

Chief Hon Sir  David Nwankwo( lkukuoma Awka North), who was among those that received  the award, said it would push him to do more, and that he has been in youth empowerment, human capital development, skill acquisition towards reducing youth restiveness.

He maintained that when youths are gainfully employed, the society will progress, adding that human empowerment  is the key to youth restiveness  so that they can join hands in community development and fighting insecurity.

” In my local government, i have tried to engage some youths. I have some scholarships and brought the magnitude down to my local government in order to get the youths employed.”

Nwankwo said he had hospitals and  industries where over 100 workers are employed and will liase with other role models in Awka North and goverment of the state in order to get dividends of democracy.

He commended the state government for his efforts, especially in building roads, bridges connecting the communities, such that Awka North is now a new heaven of Anambra State.

Earlier in his speech, Dr Amachi Nwachukwu of Priston Hospital, urged Anambra youths to be dedicated, stay away from crime, be consistent, have focus,  be hard working and never look for easy ways to make money.

High point of the event was the unveiling of a compendium of star role models and community  role models; a document

celebrating outstanding  individuals whose contributions have shaped their communities positively.