How I broke education jinx among 26 children — Rivers graduate

Okwuchukwu Ededa, a graduate of Educational Management from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State, shares his inspiring story of overcoming family struggles and becoming the first university graduate among 26 children. Born in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Ededa relocated to Port Harcourt in Rivers State at the age of 21. His father, a polygamist with 26 children from five wives, passed away when Ededa was just seven years old.

Ededa's siblings, who also lacked tertiary education, followed a similar path marked by frustration and missed opportunities. His older brother, who passed the UTME but couldn't secure admission, even tried to start a business selling electrical products, but faced betrayal and bankruptcy. His older sister attempted to enroll in a nursing school but was unsuccessful. Ededa himself faced immense challenges, including hunger, persecution, and allegations while attempting to start a nylon business.

Ededa's foster father, a pastor he met online, became a mentor in his life. Ededa left his village in frustration, unable to witness his siblings' struggles with education. Despite the support from family and friends, Ededa credits his foster father for providing guidance and encouragement to break the education jinx within his family.