Governor Umo Eno has called on Akwa Ibom State University to introduce a Department of Business and Entrepreneurial Studies, urging the institution to align its academic structure with current economic demands.
The Governor made the appeal during the combined sixth, seventh and eighth convocation ceremony held at the university’s main campus in Ikot Akpaden. He was represented by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi.
Addressing graduands, the Governor said higher education must prepare students for a competitive and increasingly global economy. He urged the university to embed enterprise education into its curriculum so that graduates leave campus with practical business skills.
He advised young people to consider setting up small and medium scale enterprises, particularly within the service sector, which he described as a fast growing area of opportunity. According to him, success in that space requires a solid grasp of business models, marketing strategy and professional standards.
He said the proposed department would equip students with the skills needed to move from graduation into business ownership. He added that while entrepreneurship should be encouraged, those who prefer paid employment can explore openings linked to more than eighty five ongoing projects across infrastructure, tourism, healthcare and housing in the state.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for cultism, gender based violence and other anti social conduct in tertiary institutions. He commended students of the university for maintaining order and urged them to remain focused on their studies and personal development.
He assured the university of continued government support, including improvements to internal road networks, hostel accommodation and other facilities aimed at strengthening its standing within Nigeria’s university system.
On the convocation theme, Leveraging Emerging Technology to Enhance University Education and National Development, the Governor said his administration has integrated technology into governance to streamline processes and reduce waste. He noted that the state has established a dedicated Ministry of Technology and Digital Economy to deepen digital transformation.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Otoabasi Akpan, expressed appreciation to the Governor for the opportunity to lead the institution. He pledged commitment to advancing the state government’s ARISE Agenda and the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He disclosed that the university has created nineteen research centres and nine research institutes to strengthen research and innovation.
The ceremony featured addresses by the Chancellor, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, and the Pro Chancellor, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma. It also included the conferment of honorary degrees, first degrees, postgraduate diplomas and higher degrees, alongside the presentation of academic prizes. The event drew dignitaries from across the country.
