Eno Applauded As Education Reforms Win Hearts

A member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly representing Essien Udim Constituency, Ukpong Akpabio II, has commended Governor Umo Eno for his leadership style and commitment to advancing education, following the governor’s decision to lecture pro bono at the Department of Business Development and Entrepreneurial Studies, Akwa Ibom State University.

According to Ireporter Online, Akpabio made the remarks while speaking with journalists shortly after the university’s convocation ceremony, where he bagged a Master’s degree in Public Administration. He described the governor’s initiative as a commendable step that would have a far-reaching and positive impact on both students and the department.

The governor, who serves as Visitor to the institution, had earlier praised the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oto-Abasi Akpan, for his visionary leadership, which facilitated the establishment of seven additional faculties and secured approval for 60 academic programmes from the National Universities Commission, including Business Development and Entrepreneurial Studies.

At the event, Eno announced plans to personally teach a course in the department without remuneration, with the aim of equipping students with practical knowledge and insights into business development, particularly within the small and medium-scale enterprise sector.

Akpabio noted that such an approach mirrors practices in top global institutions, where students benefit from direct engagement with accomplished professionals. He stressed that the governor’s background as a successful entrepreneur would significantly enrich the academic experience of students and strengthen the department.

The lawmaker also acknowledged the administration’s broader achievements in the education sector, highlighting initiatives such as the construction of model schools, increased bursary allocations, enhanced allowances for National Youth Service Corps members of Akwa Ibom origin, and sustained support for educational institutions.

He further applauded plans by the state government to construct residential quarters for lecturers at the university, noting that the move would enhance productivity and create a more conducive learning and teaching environment. Akpabio urged stakeholders to rally support for the governor’s efforts to reposition the institution and the education sector for sustained growth beyond 2027.