Against All Odds, CSN Cleaner Bags Veritas University Certificate

By CSN Media

In a heart-warming tale of determination and fulfillment, Mrs. Ramatu Joseph, a cleaner with the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), Abuja, has achieved a remarkable milestone – earning a certificate from Veritas University’s Catholic Social Teaching (CST) program.

Born and raised in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Mrs. Joseph’s journey to this achievement was not without its challenges. Despite facing financial difficulties, her parents ensured she received a secondary school education. However, her dreams of pursuing higher education were put on hold due to circumstances beyond her control.

Mrs. Joseph joined CSN in 2008 as a cleaner, a role she has held for over 16 years. During her early years at CSN, she was consistently encouraged by the Rev. Sr. Bernadine Ikeji, the CSN Human Resources Manager, to further her education. Although she was unable to take up the offer at the time, she ensured that her husband and children are educated, When the opportunity for the CST program at Veritas University’s Faculty of Theology was presented to her, she grabbed it with both hands.

The CST program had a profound impact on Mrs. Joseph’s life, particularly boosting here sense and awareness of human dignity. “I learned that everybody has his own dignity, we are all created from God,” she explained. “So, how I would take people, how I would talk with people, or work with people, I learned it from CST.”

The program not only broadened her knowledge but also transformed her lifestyle. “I learned how to be a good Christian, how to respect people, whether young or old,” she said. “The program really changed the way I see life.”

Mrs. Joseph’s experience in the CST program was further enriched by the special recognition she received from the CSN Social Communications Director, Rev. Fr. Michael Umoh. “Fr. Umoh made me feel like somebody when I thought I was nothing,” she recounted, her voice filled with gratitude.

On the day of her graduation, Mrs. Joseph was overwhelmed with joy and pride, seeing herself graduate alongside some management staff of CSN. “I received that certificate with happiness because of the amount of people who graduated from CST,” she said. “I was very happy and proud that day.”

As she reflected on her journey, Mrs. Joseph offered words of encouragement to others. “Those that have never done their own, they should try their best,” she advised. “Because any time they want to do the CST program, they should perform very well. At least they will achieve what we also achieved.”

Mrs. Joseph’s story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and aspirations.