By: Ekanem-Faith Usang-
In a bid to promote educational advancement and community development in the area, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. Felix Akposi, has disclosed plans to partner with the College of Education, Akamkpa.
The Chairman disclosed this during a meeting with the Governing Board of the College in Akamkpa recently.
Akposi who described the visit as a family engagement which is focused on fostering collaboration and reinforcing the institution’s role in shaping future leaders, thank the delegation for their interest in his administration.
"We want to explore the possibilities of empowering our people through Entrepreneurship training now that your school is about to be metamorphosed into a full fledged University of Education and Entrepreneurship Development and Akamkpa is ready to take advantage of this opportunity, " he added.
Hon. Akposi, who attributed his emergence as chairman to divine providence, assured the board of his readiness to prioritizing the interests of both the local government and the college.
"The College of Education is the heart of Akamkpa, and elevating this institution is a step in the right direction," he affirmed, pledging to also support initiatives that would enhance the school's impact on the community.
The chairman underscored the importance of unity and progressive thinking within the Akamkpa community and viewed the meeting as an opportunity to align their collective vision for mutual benefit.
"Akamkpa is on the path of transformation and we will be deliberate if we must succeed which why this partnership is very important to us," adding, “We must reengineer the minds of our youth and encourage our children to embrace education and vocational development most importantly”
Addressing the challenges facing the local government, Hon. Akposi acknowledged the gaps left by the previous administration, describing them as opportunities for growth. “Challenges are not meant to scare us; they are meant to strengthen us,” he noted, committing all efforts to God’s guidance.
Reaffirming his dedication to unity, prayer, and progress, the chairman emphasized that these are essential elements for success.
He assured the board of his full commitment to achieving the goals of both the council and the college.
In a final call to action, Hon. Akposi stressed the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility in the Youths of Akamkpa.
"Education remains the cornerstone of a prosperous future. We must all work together to create opportunities for our children to thrive," he concluded.
Earlier the Provost, College of Education, Akamkpa Prof. Patrick Asuquo who led other members of the Governing Board, commended the Chairman’s vision and expressed the board’s readiness to collaborate in key areas such as research, data generation, and teaching practices.
"This partnership will not only strengthen the institution but also empower the local community to reclaim its pride of place," he remarked.
Board Secretary Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Bob Etta emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and mutual respect between the council and the college.
He used a symbolic analogy, stating, “One must meet the owner of a house to receive a resounding welcome,” highlighting the importance of collaboration between the local government and the institution for the benefit of the host community.
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, with both parties agreeing to explore areas of collaboration that would drive educational excellence and development in Akamkpa.
The event underscores a shared determination to uplift the institution and the local government for the greater good of the rural dwellers.