Makurdi, May 28, 2024: The Benue State Government has announced plans to engage foreign-based professionals to provide practical skills training in technology and Information Communication Technology (ICT) at Akawe Torkula Polytechnic, Makurdi. This initiative aims to equip youths with the necessary knowledge for international certifications in technical skills, promoting self-reliance.
Dr. Martins Agena, Rector of the Polytechnic, disclosed this in a statement in Lagos on Wednesday. He emphasized that this move aligns with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration’s commitment to elevating the polytechnic to international standards and exposing Benue indigenes to valuable and productive skills.
Dr. Agena revealed that the polytechnic’s management has finalized agreements with foreign technical partners from reputable institutions in the UK, Canada, and the U.S. These partners, he said, are eager to serve as resource persons, providing students with skills acquisition training.
“There are non-governmental organizations and individuals out there who are willing to support innovative ideas. They are there to support science and technology, which is the core of technical education. Private individuals and friends alike are much more willing. We have met over and over, and they are willing to come to our aid,” Agena stated.
He added that despite the apparent difficulties, the execution would be straightforward once the right steps are taken. The engagement of foreign professionals, whose expertise has been tested in developed countries, will be facilitated through virtual classroom technology. This approach ensures that human resources will not be a problem as the polytechnic leverages the global village concept where geographical boundaries are no longer a barrier.
Dr. Agena also addressed the current challenges faced by the institution, emphasizing the critical need for polytechnic education in the 21st century due to its capacity to build essential skills. He expressed confidence in the support from Governor Alia, who is determined to enhance the lives of Benue youths by providing them with the technical skills necessary for self-reliance.
“Of course, the difficulties are there but I have a governor who confided in me, who has confidence in me and who said he wants this place to make things better for the society. For now, Governor Alia is determined and deliberate about giving the citizens and indigent people of the state the technical skills that will make them self-reliant,” Agena remarked.
Governor Alia has been insistent on meeting the requirements to make the polytechnic globally competitive, recognizing education as a priority and a tool for combating insecurity. Dr. Agena highlighted that by equipping youths with essential skills and education, they would be less likely to engage in criminal activities.
This initiative underscores the Benue State Government’s commitment to transforming education and providing opportunities for its youth to thrive in today’s world.
(NAN)