Dr. Mrs. Basilia Igbokwe, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, led the Women in Technical Education and Development (WITED) on a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.
According to a release from the Office of the Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters and made available to newsmen, the visit was part of WITED’s quarterly meeting activities in the state. The Governor was ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru.
During the visit, Dr. Igbokwe introduced key members of WITED to the Deputy Governor. These included the National/Chapter Coordinator, Lady Princess Regina Elechi-Amadi, Ph.D., the National Zonal Coordinators for the South East, South West, and North East, Dr. Mrs. Adaku Achilike, Dr. Mrs. Charlotte Iro-Idoro, and Dr. Mrs. Tanji, respectively, as well as other chapter executives.
Also present was Mrs. Chinyere Adanne Ojiuko, the Bursar of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, and Miss Chikairo Precious, Vice President of the Student Union Government (SUG).
WITED’s Commitment to Technical Education and Government Support
Lady Princess Regina Elechi-Amadi, Ph.D., speaking on behalf of WITED, expressed deep appreciation for the support the organization has received from the Governor and Deputy Governor. She specifically acknowledged their role in Dr. Igbokwe’s appointment as the 9th Substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede. Lady Amadi reiterated WITED’s commitment to advancing technical education and increasing female participation in STEM fields. She emphasized the crucial role of government partnerships in achieving these goals.
Deputy Governor Commends WITED and Reaffirms Government’s Support
Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, responding on behalf of the Governor, commended WITED for its dedication to promoting technical education. She expressed her personal alignment with the organization’s mission and confirmed her intention to officially register with WITED during the opening ceremony set for March 26, 2025, at Federal Polytechnic Nekede.
The Deputy Governor highlighted the Governor’s commitment to technological development, pointing to initiatives such as the Skill-Up Imo Initiative. This program has empowered over 40,000 youths with digital and tech-based skills, allowing them to earn a sustainable income. She also spoke of the Governor’s vision to establish a technology innovation hub in Imo State, similar to Silicon Valley, and his ongoing efforts to modernize schools with advanced learning tools.
Encouraging Female Participation in STEM and Vocational Training
Dr. Ekomaru urged WITED to intensify efforts to encourage female students to take a greater interest in science, mathematics, and technical subjects. She stressed the importance of exposing young girls to STEM disciplines early on to better prepare them for careers in engineering, technology, and other technical fields.
She also called on WITED to extend its efforts to secondary schools, advocating for the revival of vocational and technical skills training, which is becoming increasingly neglected in Nigeria. According to the Deputy Governor, equipping students with practical skills would enhance their employability and productivity.
Reaffirming the State Government’s unwavering support, Dr. Ekomaru assured WITED of Governor Uzodimma’s commitment to policies that support technical education, skill acquisition, and youth empowerment. She pledged her personal backing to ensure WITED’s initiatives receive the necessary support to make a significant impact.
