The principal of the newly-established Federal Technical College, Eke, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Mr Audu Angbeye, has called for a cordial relationship between the college and the host communities.
The principal said it is only in an atmosphere of peace and collaboration that the essence of the college would be realised. He spoke when he addressed pioneer students and parents of the college over the weekend. He said the establishment of the college aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) aimed at revolutionizing the education sector by building a robust workforce of skilled technical talent to power the nation’s industrial and technological advances.
According to Angbeye, the college represents a step by the federal government to bridge Nigeria’s skills gap. He said the federal government had made comprehensive provisions “to ensure that all pioneer students receive high-quality technical education completely free of charge”.
Quoting him, “Under this fully funded initiative, the federal government will cover all tuition fees, supply student uniforms, and provide quality daily meals. The Federal Ministry of Education, under the leadership of Dr Tunji Alausa, will ensure the provision of free and quality meals throughout the period of their studies.”
Mr Angbeye explained that the programme is structured to maximize hands-on proficiency covering foundational theory and technical principles; intensive, full-time practical exposure and workshop immersion; and a special focus on integrated mastery combining advanced practical applications with academic theory.
He continued, “The college is establishing strategic partnerships with premier industrial research institutes, including the Projects Development Institute (PRODA) and the Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), alongside other corporate service providers to ensure experiential learning. The pioneer intakes should seize this opportunity to secure their futures and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Speaking to THE WHISTLER, some natives of Eke community commended the federal government for locating the college in their place. Mazi Emma Ene, a native, said, “Eke is a peace-loving community. We are accommodating. We shall guide this college jealously. It is the kind of development that we have been praying for. We assure the management and the students that we shall give them our maximum support. This college is a dream come through.”
A parent, Mrs Nnenna Oche, said, “I’m happy. I’ll make sure that my son is admitted in that college next year. I love it. We need schools where students are taught practicals to enhance their understanding of the courses.”
Our correspondent reports that Eke is the country home of former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffery Onyeama.
