Unique Approach to Motivation
Rev. Fr. James Utav, the Principal of Mt. St. Gabriel’s Secondary School, located in the heart of Benue State and owned by the Catholic Church, is gaining attention for his unique approach to motivating and inspiring students.
In a heartwarming gesture, Father Utav recently shared pictures of a meal with students of the leading secondary school, accompanied by insightful words of wisdom in a chat with AkweyaTV.
“I Hate Eating Alone”
Fr. Utav, who clearly has a deep affection for the students under his care, expressed his passion for being around children, stating, “I love children, naturally! I hate eating alone.”
This sentiment is reflected in his efforts to create a sense of camaraderie and mentorship among the students.
The Principal, who is also a former student of the school under the long run of the late Rev. Fr. Angus Fraser, emphasised the importance of inspiring students to strive for greatness. He mentioned that he tells them daily to work hard and succeed in their endeavors.
Sharing a meal with them, Fr. Utav believes, is one way to exemplify this message, a leadership style characteristic of Fr. Fraser.
Special Treat
Fr. Utav doesn’t limit his interaction with the students to the dining table. He occasionally picks some of them up in his car for the special treat.
“Once in a while, I pick some in the car and give them the treat. They like it and show it,” he told AkweyaTV.
This unique connection with the students brings a sense of fulfillment to Fr. Utav, who sees himself as a father figure guiding them towards success.
Exemplary Behaviour, Good Academics
One remarkable aspect of this initiative is that Father Utav handpicks students, ensuring that they are exemplary in their behaviour and academics. His aim is to set an example so that others can learn from the good students and strive to become better themselves.
The most recent meal shared by Fr. Utav and the students on Saturday, October 13, 2023 featured a simple semo menu as the main course, preceded by a soft drink.
This time, the gathering included students from JSS 1 to SSS 1, with an age range of 14 and under. The students, undoubtedly touched by their principal’s caring gesture, continue to find inspiration in his words and actions.
Compassion Helps Education
Fr. James Utav’s dedication to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for the students of Mt St Gabriel’s Secondary School serves as a heartwarming example of the impact that a compassionate educator can have on young lives.
His commitment to inspiring the next generation of leaders is both commendable and uplifting, reminiscent of the methods of Fr. Fraser.
Who Was Angus Fraser?
The late Rev. Fr. Angus George Fraser, who served as the principal of Mt St Gabriel’s Secondary School in Makurdi for over 40 years, passed away in October 2018 at the age of 87. He was born on April 8, 1931, and his roots traced back to the Caribbean Island nation of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Fraser was the founder of the Via Christi Society.
He breathed his last on the night of October 7, succumbing to a short illness while under medical care at Princess Royal Hospital in Farnborough, which is situated near Orpington, United Kingdom.
Just before he died, Fraser received a gift of a new car from his grateful former students in Abuja on the way to the airport.
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