Federal Polytechnic Ukana moves to expand specialised programmes, eyes strategic industry needs
The Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Mrs Eduma Essien, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to developing specialised academic programmes tailored to meet emerging socio-economic needs, particularly in Akwa Ibom State.
The Rector made this known while playing host to the leadership of the Nigerian Association For Educational Administration And Planning last week in the polytechnic.
According to the Rector, the institution is deliberately positioning itself to offer unique programmes that would be exclusive to Federal Polytechnic Ukana in the near future. She noted that the Polytechnic is also designing new academic offerings that will directly support key sectors such as hospitality, logistics, and transportation, especially in anticipation of major developments like the Ibom Deep Sea Port project.
She added that these initiatives are aimed at ensuring that graduates are adequately equipped with relevant skills that will enhance employability and contribute meaningfully to state and national development.
The Rector also expressed appreciation to visiting stakeholders for their support and goodwill, while graciously accepting an honour recently conferred on her in recognition of her leadership and performance.
Earlier in his remarks, the state Coordinator, Nigerian Association for Educational Administration and Planning (NAEAP), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr. Princewill Egwuasi said they were on a collaboration visit to the institution, calling for stronger institutional partnerships.
Dr. Egwuasi, explained that the visit was aimed at promoting advocacy, collaboration, and information sharing within the educational sector.
He stressed the need for Federal Polytechnic Ukana to strengthen collaboration with universities to enable the establishment of Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) programmes, particularly in engineering disciplines.
He further noted that such partnerships would enhance academic progression opportunities for students and strengthen the technical capacity of the institution.
The association lauded the transformative effort of the rector which they noted had impacted positively on the institution. He maintained that the association was impressed by the Rector’s sterling performance in the last one year and had accordingly nominated her for an honour by the national leadership of the group later in the year at Sokoto State.
In a vote of thanks, the Registrar of the polytechnic,Mr. Idhigu Lucky described the visit as a step towards fostering stronger ties between professional bodies and tertiary institutions in the state for improved educational development and innovation. He thanked NAEAP for coming and for acknowledging the efforts of the Rector.
The visit had in attendance principal officers of the polytechnic including Dr Emmanuel Esomonu -bursar,Mr. Ehikioya Uduebor- Polytechnic Librarian among others.
