The significance of the Umuofia Progressive Union

The Union is a mutual benefits organization for Umuofian emigrés that has chapters everywhere, including Lagos. Education is idealized as the means of becoming a modern people, and the Umuofians tax themselves mercilessly to provide a scholarship for one of their own to go to Oxford University. Obi Okonkwo is chosen as the first recipient, and after he completes his studies, he must repay the £800 loan within four years. The repayment will then be used to benefit other young scholars. The UPU also expects Obi to be on the lookout for good jobs for its members.