Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Matthias Omaka St. Augustine’s Seminary
St. Augustine’s Seminary; Rector Blasts Indulgent Parents, Reveals N130,000 Subsidy Per Student
…Appreciates the Bishop, Most Rev. Peter N. Chukwu for his support
The Rector, St. Augustine’s Seminary, Ezzamgbo, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Matthias Omaka, has cautioned parents against what he described as indulgent and excuse-driven parenting, warning that such attitudes weaken discipline and frustrate seminary formation.
Speaking on Valentine’s day at the 2026 PTA meeting in Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Council Area of Ebonyi State, he said parents who shield their children from responsibility make the work of formators more difficult.
“When you choose the seminary, you also choose to obey its rules. The seminary resumed the session with 569 students but has recorded 16 exits, 10 of them over misconduct” he hinted.
Fr. Omaka frowned at a growing trend where parents do everything for their children, leaving them without life skills or accountability. He stressed that children aged 1 to 9 should be grounded in discipline and values, while teenagers must learn responsibility and independence.
“Never do for your child what he is supposed to do for himself. Insisting on discipline at home. Authentic spirituality must begin at home”he added.
He stressed the need for parents to encourage their children to go for regular confession, Holy Eucharist and devotion.
While appreciating the Bishop, Most Rev. Peter N. Chukwu, Board of Directors, and the entire Formation Team of our seminary for their support and guidance, Fr. Omaka disclosed that although the actual cost of boarding per student is N228,000 per term, parents pay N98,000, with each student enjoying a subsidy of N130,000.
He also revealed that the seminary is preparing for WAEC’s computer-based testing, but needs 150 computers and currently has only 80.
The Rector noted that despite challenges, the seminary won awards at the ICH Health Club Competition and excelled at the Onitsha Province Music Fiesta. The school is also boosting self-reliance through poultry, fishery and livestock farming.
He urged parents to give honest reports about their children and partner with the seminary in raising disciplined, spiritually and intellectually grounded future leaders.
In attendance were the PTA Chairman, Chief Emmanuel Ogharu; his Vice Chairman, Dr. Chika Okorie; among others.
