Akwa Ibom erstwhile deputy governor and the Immediate past senator representing Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District, Senator Chris Ekpenyong have inaugurated three state-of-the-art Skills Acquisition Centres in Ika, Ini and Obot Akara local government areas respectively.
According to Senator Chris Ekpenyong, the centres are meant to provide accessible training opportunities that would cater for the needs of the district’s diverse population.
Speaking last Friday, May 3, during the handing over ceremony of the projects, Senator Ekpenyong said each center was meant to deliver peculiar vocational and entrepreneurial courses, ranging from fashion design, hair dressing, shoe making, barbing and other skills.
Flanked by his wife, Engr Rose Ekpenyong, the former Akwa Ibom deputy governor stressed, “This comprehensive curriculum is designed not only to impart practical skills, but also to instill a spirit of innovation and self-reliance among the participants.
“The significance of these centers extends far beyond their physical structures. They represent hope for the youth seeking alternative paths to success and economic independence.
“By equipping individuals with relevant skills, this initiative is designed to break the cycle of unemployment and poverty that often plagues rural areas.”
In his remark, the governor of Akwa Ibom State, “Pastor Umo Eno, lauded Senator Ekpenyong for still thinking about his constituents, even after leaving office one year ago.
Gov Eno commended Sen. Ekpenyong for his sense of transparency and accountability, saying only a leader with conscience can take such huge projects to decisive conclusions, despite leaving the Senate 12 months back.
The governor who was represented by his Special Adviser on Political Affairs (Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District), Rt. Hon. Udo Kieran Akpan, said, “Young men and women who were struggling to find meaningful employment will now be enrolled in skills tailored to their interests and aptitudes.
“Graduates of these programmes are not just job seekers; but they will become job creators, establishing their enterprises and contributing to the local economy.
“Indeed, Sen. Ekpenyong’s investment in skills development is sowing seeds for future prosperity. Beyond the immediate benefits of job readiness, these centers shall foster a culture of lifelong learning and adaptation to changing industries.
“They represent a sustainable model for community development, one that prioritizes human capital and unlocks the full potential of every citizen.”
Others present at the event were, the MD of Cross River Basin Development Authority, Engr Bassey Mkposong; Director of Finance, Dr Jackson Etim; Director Planning, Engr Ubong Umoren, among others.
