Cross River Commences Training For 100 People On Hi Tech
By Uket Oka, Calabar
The yearnings of the Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, for the socio- economic transformation of the state through technological advancement has begun yielding results as no fewer than 100 people are currently undergoing hi tech training in the state.
The training, sponsored by the State Government in collaboration with the Incubator Factory Limited is holding at Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort in Calabar, the State capital.
Declaring the event open, State acting Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, stated that the hitherto dormant and fallowed minds, particularly of the youths, are by this feat rejuvenated to positive actions.
Odey was represented by the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Bon Duke.
He also stated that the State government intends to accomplish the lofty dreams of running an administration that is technologically driven which would in a short period, change the scope of the state economy.
The Acting Governor further expressed optimism that, “with the crop of youths today who are willing to technologically exploit their brains, government would remain committed to creating a conducive atmosphere for them to thrive in all areas of endeavour.”
The Accountant General of the State, Dr. Glory Bassey, expressed optimism that the transformation agenda of the state would be driven by youths who should remain committed and involve in all economic programmes of the state.
Commissioner for Youths Development and Skills Acquisition, Barrister Odum–Ijom Ukam, urged the trainees who were mostly youths to take the programme seriously as it could provide a gateway to prosperity.
The Programme Director of The Factory Incubator, Sobe Chukwu, assured of the readiness of enterprise to impact adequate knowledge on the trainees.
In his welcome address, the State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon Patrick Egbede said that the programme was an initiative of the Ministry which was graciously endorsed by the State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu.
The Commissioner outlined some of the benefits of the training to include, acquisition of in- demand tech skills, employment and corporate placements, poverty alleviation and wealth creation.
According to him, the state government stands to reap in benefits such as transformation into a global tech hub and general economic growth.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Gertrude Odu, commended the Governor for the display of magnanimity by endorsing the programme as well as all the stakeholders for their active participation and hoped that the beneficiaries would not abuse the privilege accorded them.
