Parents Allegedly Refuse to Fund Son’s Education After Leaving Seminary, Despite Outstanding Results

After leaving seminary school to pursue his dreams, brilliant student Paul Ifechukwu Ejem, who scored 342 in JAMB and earned 8 WAEC distinctions, was reportedly denied educational support by his parents—sparking public outrage and calls for help online.

A young boy from Ebonyi State, Paul Ifechukwu Ejem, is facing an uncertain future after his parents reportedly withdrew financial support for his education due to his decision to leave seminary school. This is despite Paul achieving exceptional academic results — scoring 342 in the JAMB examination and earning 8 distinctions in WAEC.

The matter was brought to public attention by social media user @winexviv, who shared Paul’s story on platform X (formerly Twitter), calling on the public to help prevent his academic dreams from being cut short.

“This boy, Paul Ifechukwu Ejem from Ebonyi State, scored 342 in JAMB and 8 distinctions in WAEC. His family decided not to fund his education anymore since last year because he dropped out of the seminary to pursue his dream,” the post read.

The post continued, stating:

“We can’t let such a brilliant talent go to waste. We will take up his education and sponsor him through ISEE.”

Public Reactions

The story quickly gained traction online, sparking a mix of sympathy, concern, and debate over parental authority, religious expectations, and the right of young people to choose their own path.

Here are some of the top reactions from X:

@ChiagozieE37721: “What exactly is the dream he wants to pursue? Why does seminary life hinder that?”
@ChimezieChuta: “Not everyone who attends a seminary must become a priest. His parents might simply be holding onto a foundation they believe in. Still, he deserves to chase his dreams.”
@SkennerN: “The reality is that seminary school is cheaper. Maybe the family simply can’t afford a secular university. That could be part of the issue too.”
@MizCazorla1: “Why can’t he study and continue seminary together? Unless there are deeper reasons, this situation feels avoidable.”
@Joel53145145: “The Catholic Church may need to reconsider celibacy rules someday. Let young people live their lives with purpose. The boy has chosen; he deserves support.”
@Jon_Kc_E: “In some parts of the Southeast, many parents idolize the priesthood. This might be another case of misplaced expectations.”
@Ashibuoguh: “If the family is capable but unwilling to support him due to ideology, it’s better to mend the family bond. Scholarships should go to those with no support system at all.”

As Paul’s story continues to circulate, many are hopeful that the attention will result in opportunities for him to continue his education and pursue the career path he believes in.

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, GISTREEL

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