Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, has matriculated 1,925 newly admitted students, with the State Commissioner for Education, Ubong Essien, commending the institution’s leadership for aligning its programmes with national technical and vocational education priorities and the state government’s development blueprint.
The commissioner, who spoke at the 31st matriculation ceremony, praised the Acting Rector, Akanimo Jonah, for steering the polytechnic towards relevance in skills development and innovation. He noted that the institution’s direction reflects both the Federal Government’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) policy and the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno.
According to him, the polytechnic’s performance has improved significantly in recent years, rising from 99th to 2nd position in national rankings in 2023—an achievement he attributed to deliberate reforms in programme accreditation, infrastructure, and management.
In his address, Prof. Essien highlighted the state government’s investments across the education sector, noting that expansion at the basic and secondary levels is already driving increased enrolment into tertiary institutions.
“Educational advancement in the ARISE Agenda has found a very proud testament in this polytechnic,” he said, pointing to the establishment of model primary and secondary schools, improved infrastructure, and free education policies aimed at boosting access.
He added that the surge in student numbers reflects a broader effort to reduce out-of-school children and strengthen the transition into higher education, with institutions like the polytechnic expected to absorb the growing demand.
The commissioner further disclosed that the polytechnic currently sustains about 54 accredited programmes, with plans to expand through additional accreditations and restructuring of departments to meet emerging skill demands.
“It is worthy of note that the effort of this polytechnic… has aligned most perfectly with… the idea of Technical Vocational Education and Training,” he said, stressing the importance of equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Addressing the newly admitted students, Prof. Essien urged them to remain focused and resilient, noting that admission into the institution was highly competitive, with over 8,600 applicants seeking placement.
“The topography of this institution is undulating; it shows how life would have its ups and downs… you have to persevere,” he said.
He also encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship and collaboration, urging them to form groups, build enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s growing economy, which he described as increasingly driven by construction and skills-based development.
Commending the institution’s staff and management, the commissioner acknowledged visible improvements in infrastructure and learning facilities, noting that continued investment under the ARISE Agenda would further position the polytechnic as a hub for technical excellence.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening technical education through initiatives such as skill acquisition centres and innovation hubs, aimed at preparing students for global competitiveness.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Rector, Akanimo Jonah, expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for sustained support, which he said has driven both infrastructural and academic growth in the institution.
He noted that the polytechnic’s rise from 99th to 2nd position in national rankings in 2023 was made possible through the administration’s commitment to education, including timely funding and policy support.
Dr. Jonah also commended the appointment of the Commissioner for Education, Ubong Essien, describing it as a strategic decision that has strengthened the sector.
“We sincerely thank His Excellency… for his visionary leadership. Not only has he sustained the polytechnic, but he has also fueled enormous infrastructural and academic growth,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, the Acting Rector disclosed that all 54 academic programmes in the institution have secured full accreditation, alongside additional approvals for skill-based and vocational courses aimed at aligning with modern workforce demands.
Addressing the newly admitted students, he described their admission as the beginning of a transformative journey, urging them to embrace discipline, resilience, and skills development in line with the state’s ARISE Agenda.
“This institution is your launchpad… With Governor Umo Eno’s backing, we are surging towards number one nationwide,” he added.
The matriculation ceremony marked a significant milestone for the institution as it continues to position itself as a leading hub for technical and vocational education in Nigeria.
The matriculation ceremony formally admitted the students into the institution’s academic community, marking the beginning of their pursuit of National Diploma (ND).
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