Maryamu Nursery and Primary School, Malumfashi, an educational institution under the Catholic Diocese of Katsina, has commenced the first term of the 2026/2027 academic session with a Holy Mass at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, Malumfashi, entrusting the new academic year to the guidance, protection and blessings of God.
The Eucharistic celebration marked the spiritual beginning of the new term, bringing together the school’s management, teachers, pupils and members of the religious community in thanksgiving and prayer. It also provided an opportunity for the school community to reflect on the importance of faith, discipline, academic commitment and moral formation in the education of children.
Committed to the holistic development of young minds, Maryamu Nursery and Primary School continues to emphasise the importance of combining academic excellence with sound moral values and spiritual growth. The opening Mass therefore served as a reminder that education extends beyond classroom instruction to the formation of responsible, disciplined and compassionate individuals.
Holy Mass Highlights the Mission of Catholic Education
The Holy Mass was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Cyril Ibe, who, in his homily, commended the school’s management for sustaining its commitment to education and character formation.
Reflecting on the school’s history and contribution to the educational development of Malumfashi, the chief celebrant observed that Maryamu Nursery and Primary School has, over several decades, maintained its reputation as one of the leading educational institutions in the area.
He noted that the institution has contributed to the formation of generations of pupils, many of whom have grown into distinguished personalities making meaningful contributions to society.
The priest’s remarks highlighted the enduring value of an educational environment where children are equipped not only with the knowledge and skills necessary for academic success but also with the moral principles required to navigate life responsibly.
He encouraged the school community to remain faithful to the values that sustain quality education, particularly discipline, integrity, dedication, respect and a commitment to the common good.
Bishop’s Appreciation to Teachers for Their Dedication
Speaking on behalf of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina, Very Rev. Fr. Cyril Ibe expressed profound appreciation to the teachers for their dedication, commitment and selfless sacrifices in nurturing the pupils entrusted to their care.
He acknowledged the significant role teachers play in shaping the intellectual, moral and spiritual development of children, noting that the work of education requires patience, perseverance and a genuine concern for the growth and well-being of every pupil.
Teachers, he emphasised, contribute to the future of society by helping young people acquire the knowledge, discipline and values needed to become responsible citizens.
His message served as an encouragement to the teaching staff to continue approaching their responsibilities with diligence and a strong sense of vocation, recognising that their influence extends beyond the classroom and can shape the lives of pupils for years to come.
The appreciation also reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to supporting educators in their important mission of forming young people in knowledge, faith and character.
Pupils Encouraged to Embrace Discipline and Academic Excellence
Addressing the pupils through his homily, the chief celebrant encouraged them to appreciate the sacrifices made by their parents and guardians to provide them with an education.
He urged them to respond to these sacrifices by taking their studies seriously, obeying their teachers, respecting their parents, maintaining good conduct and cultivating habits that would support their academic and personal development.
He further encouraged the pupils to pursue excellence through hard work, discipline and perseverance, reminding them of the importance of growing into responsible individuals who can make positive contributions to their families, the Church and society.
The message underscored the importance of cooperation among pupils, parents and teachers in building a learning environment where children can develop their abilities and reach their full potential.
As the new academic term begins, the pupils are called to approach their studies with renewed enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to learn, while allowing Christian values to guide their relationships and decisions.
School Management and Staff Commended for Teamwork
The successful organisation of the opening Mass reflected the concerted efforts of the school’s new Headteacher, Sr. Martina Odinkemma, OP, the newly appointed Bursar, Sr. Mercy, and the entire staff of Maryamu Nursery and Primary School.
Their cooperation and commitment contributed to the successful celebration, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility in advancing the mission of the institution.
The presence of the Dominican Sisters further enriched the occasion, adding to the solemnity of the Eucharistic celebration and reflecting the contribution of religious life to the educational and spiritual mission of the Church.
The school’s leadership continues to play an important role in creating an environment where pupils can receive quality education while being guided by the values of faith, discipline, respect and service.
Headteacher Expresses Gratitude and Hope for the New Term
At the conclusion of the Holy Mass, the Headteacher, Sr. Martina Odinkemma, OP, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Very Rev. Fr. Cyril Ibe for accepting the invitation to preside over the opening celebration.
She offered prayers for God’s continued blessings, protection and guidance upon the chief celebrant, expressing appreciation for his spiritual support and encouragement to the school community.
Sr. Martina also commended the teachers for their tireless efforts, cooperation and commitment, acknowledging their contributions to the successful organisation of the celebration.
She equally praised the pupils for their obedience, active participation and exemplary conduct throughout the Holy Mass, encouraging them to sustain these positive attitudes as they resume their academic activities.
Expressing hope for the term ahead, the Headteacher prayed that the entire school community would experience a fruitful, peaceful and successful academic period, sustained by God's grace and faithfulness.
Her remarks reflected the school's confidence in the new academic session and its determination to continue providing an environment where children can grow academically, morally and spiritually.
Entrusting the 2026/2027 Academic Session to God
The First-Term Opening Mass was more than a formal commencement of academic activities; it was an expression of the school's dependence on God and its desire to place the education and formation of its pupils under His guidance.
Through the celebration of the Eucharist, the school community renewed its commitment to the values that define Catholic education: faith, knowledge, discipline, service and respect for the dignity of every child.
As Maryamu Nursery and Primary School begins the 2026/2027 academic session, the school looks forward to a term marked by academic progress, moral growth, cooperation among parents and teachers, and the continued development of its pupils.
With faith as its foundation, excellence as its pursuit and character as its hallmark, the institution remains committed to helping young learners discover their potential and prepare for meaningful contributions to society.
The school community prays that the Holy Spirit will guide the teachers in their work, strengthen the pupils in their studies, inspire the management in its leadership and bless every family connected with the institution throughout the academic session.
May God bless Maryamu Nursery and Primary School, its management, teachers, pupils and parents, and grant the entire school community a peaceful, fruitful and successful 2026/2027 academic session. Amen.
