Founder’s Day & Speech and Prize-Giving Day Celebrations

Urhobo College, Effurun, founded in 1948 by the Urhobo Progress Union, proudly commemorates its heritage and achievements through two landmark events: Founder’s Day and the annual Speech and Prize-Giving Day. These celebrations reflect the College’s enduring commitment to its motto — Aut Optimum Aut Nihil (Either The Best or Nothing).

Founder’s Day
Founder’s Day is a solemn and celebratory occasion dedicated to honoring the vision, sacrifice, and leadership that led to the establishment of Urhobo College. It pays tribute to the founding fathers of the institution, particularly the pioneering leadership of M. G. Ejaife, the founding Principal and first Urhobo university graduate.

Purpose of Founder’s Day
- To commemorate the founding of the College
- To honour past principals, teachers, and administrators
- To recognise the contributions of the Urhobo Progress Union
- To celebrate the legacy of excellence upheld by alumni

Activities May Include:
- Special thanksgiving service
- Founder’s Lecture delivered by a distinguished alumnus or guest
- Alumni reunion and networking sessions
- Recognition of outstanding contributors to the College
Founder’s Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to establish the institution and the responsibility of present generations to sustain its legacy.

Speech and Prize-Giving Day 
The Speech and Prize-Giving Day is a major academic and ceremonial event in the College calendar. It is held annually in March and traditionally takes place prior to the UCOSA Annual General Meeting (AGM).
This important event is consistently supported by the UK/Ireland Chapter of UCOSA and other notable UCOSA chapters and distinguished alumni, who contribute significantly to the sponsorship of prizes, awards, and development initiatives.

Objectives of the Ceremony
- To present the annual report of the College
- To recognise outstanding academic performance
- To reward excellence in leadership, sports, and extracurricular activities
- To inspire students through keynote addresses

Highlights of the Event
- Address by the Principal
- Chairman’s remarks
- Keynote speech by a distinguished guest or alumnus
- Presentation of academic prizes and scholarships
- Recognition of staff excellence
- Cultural displays and student performances
The Prize-Giving Day reinforces the College’s long-standing tradition of academic distinction and encourages students to strive continually toward excellence.

Alumni Participation
Members of UCOSA are strongly encouraged to participate in both Founder’s Day and Speech and Prize-Giving Day celebrations. Alumni involvement may include:
- Sponsorship of academic prizes and awards
- Endowment of scholarships
- Delivery of keynote lectures
- Mentorship sessions for students
- Support for institutional development projects
These events provide meaningful opportunities for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and actively contribute to its continued advancement.

Urhobo College remains steadfast in celebrating its heritage and rewarding excellence in keeping with its guiding principle: Aut Optimum Aut Nihil - The Best or Nothing.