Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation Donates AI-Tech Centre to Holy Ghost College, Owerri

By Francisca Anuforo,

The Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation (LSEF), founded by renowned Nigerian digital entrepreneur and Zinox Group Chairman, Leo Stan Ekeh, has donated a multi-million-naira Artificial Intelligence and Technology Centre to Holy Ghost College, Owerri, marking a major highlight of the institution’s 77th anniversary celebration.

The newly unveiled facility, personally supervised by Ekeh from construction to completion, is designed as a modern smart-learning environment aimed at strengthening digital education and positioning students for global competitiveness.

Equipped with integrated all-in-one Zinox computers, 24-hour solar-powered electricity through iPower systems, and high-speed Starlink corporate internet connectivity fully subscribed for the next five years, the centre delivers a technology-enabled ecosystem for advanced learning.

The AI-Tech Centre also features eco-friendly workstations, modern learning furniture and large AI-enabled interactive digital screens designed to support online tutorials, collaborative learning and real-time digital education.

The development places Holy Ghost College among Nigeria’s emerging technology-driven secondary schools equipped to provide globally relevant digital learning experiences.

Speaking during the unveiling, Ekeh, an alumnus of the institution, said the initiative reflects his commitment to preparing young Nigerians for opportunities within the global digital economy.

“It is my prayer that this centre will produce Nigeria’s next generation of tech-driven billionaires who can create wealth, transform lives and positively impact millions of lives,” he said.

According to him, students today have greater opportunities to succeed through technology than previous generations that built careers with limited digital infrastructure.

“My dream is that this centre will help build a strong technology culture among young Nigerians. Through partnerships with globally recognised consultants, we intend to provide certified AI training and world-class content that will establish this institution as a premier technology hub,” Ekeh stated.

He disclosed that plans are underway to secure certification partnerships with global technology companies including Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle and Starlink.

To ensure sustainability, Ekeh said the Foundation is recruiting dedicated management personnel for the centre, including a director and technical support staff, while introducing mentorship programmes focused on leadership, ethics, communication and youth development.

Beyond technology training, he said the Foundation aims to promote character development and responsible digital citizenship among students.

Ekeh revealed that the Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation and companies within the Zinox Group have implemented similar interventions in more than 123 educational institutions across Nigeria since 1996.

He added that after completing ongoing projects, the Foundation would intensify focus on its recently launched 1,000 Tech University Scholarships initiative targeted at indigent Nigerian students.

“It is our own way of giving back to society and helping to build the world-class human capital needed to drive Nigeria’s future development,” he said.

The technology entrepreneur also announced plans to convert one of the school’s hostels into an AI-enabled smart hostel equipped with intelligent facilities aimed at encouraging academic excellence and healthy competition among students.

Describing the centre as one of the first AI-focused secondary school facilities of its kind in South-East Nigeria, Ekeh urged students to take advantage of the opportunities provided by digital technology.

“In the 21st century, ICT remains one of the greatest equalisers. Technology allows children from humble backgrounds to compete globally and transform their destinies,” he noted.

He encouraged students to apply for the Foundation’s ongoing 1,000 Tech University Scholarships programme supported by Zinox Technologies, TD Africa, Task Systems and Konga Group.

Ekeh further disclosed that at least seven additional secondary schools nationwide are expected to benefit from similar infrastructure interventions within the next year, including mini-ICT centres and residential facilities for educators and knowledge workers.

Sharing lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, he encouraged students to embrace digital skills as pathways to future success.

“In life, many are called but few are chosen. You can become among the chosen if you acquire the right digital skills with the right mindset. This centre offers that opportunity,” he said.

Supporting the initiative, Chairman of Germaine Group, Chief Jerry Chukwueke, donated N10 million to the school.

The AI-Tech Centre was formally inaugurated by the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, alongside alumnus Cosmas Ibe.

Archbishop Ugorji praised Ekeh’s intervention, describing it as a selfless contribution rooted in genuine commitment to education.

“This is a Godly and noble gesture inspired by love and dedication to educational advancement,” he said.

He urged students to protect and maximise the facility.

“Take ownership of this centre, preserve it and use it to become ICT experts and responsible leaders of tomorrow,” the Archbishop advised.

Principal of Holy Ghost College, Rev. Dr. Samuel Agu, described the donation as a transformative investment capable of nurturing future leaders across technology and other sectors.

Similarly, Imo State Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. Bernard-Thompson Ikegwuoha, commended Ekeh for supporting the state’s education sector and described him as “a worthy ambassador of Imo State and a shining example of purposeful philanthropy and visionary leadership.”