By Denis Inakefe (ANIPR)
The State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, has emphasized the significance of information and communication technology (ICT) in education. He made this known on Tuesday, 12 March 2024, during the official handover ceremony of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Digital Economy Centre equipped in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative Social Investment Programme to the University of Cross River State.
Dr. Justin Beshel stated that nations are shifting from analogue to digital economies, and no state should be left behind, adding that with the establishment of the Digital Economy Centre in the University, students will graduate to become independent entrepreneurs rather than relying on white-collar jobs.
The wife of the Senate President Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, who represented President Tinubu’s wife Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the event, expressed her commitment to providing greater opportunities for women and girls in Nigeria to thrive in the digital era. She noted that the equipped ICT centre is a collaborative effort to provide access to technology for women and girls.
The President’s wife noted that the formal opening of the ICT centre marks a strategic step forward in setting the path for Nigerian women and girls to participate and thrive in the digital revolution, adding that the Renewed Hope Initiative in collaboration with NITDA will be expanding opportunities for digital literacy and empowerment by building and equipping ICT learning centres in other parts of the country.
The Wife of the State Governor, Rev. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, also commended the unwavering commitment of the President’s wife to the development of education and technology infrastructure in Cross River State. She stated that the establishment of the state-of-the-art ICT Centre at the University of Cross River will empower students, faculties, and researchers with the requisite tools and resources necessary to excel in the digital age.
Prof. Augustine Angba, the UNICROSS VC, inferred that the facility comprises state-of-the-art equipment, cutting-edge software, and other resources that will greatly enhance educational and research capabilities in the University, He stated that the impact of this donation went far beyond the tangible items seen at ceremony, adding that It represents an investment in the future of the University and its students.
Furthermore, Prof. Angba stated that with the advanced resources at the university’s disposal, they will be able to offer a world-class education that prepares students for the digital era and equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the ever-evolving professional landscape. He also said the Centre will serve as a catalyst for research and innovation that will enable faculty members to conduct groundbreaking research, explore emerging technologies, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of information technology.
The President of the Student Union Government, University of Cross River State, Comrade Humphrey Ogboetim, in his goodwill message congratulated everyone for being a part of the milestone event and further highlighted the importance of technology in the advancement of any society.
