…Delta Poly To Grant 15 Oghara Indigenes Scholarships Annually
The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has honoured the Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Prof. Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, with NAPS Outstanding Leadership Award for his contribution to polytechnic education in the country.
This is even as the Ufuophu-Biri, a professor of Mass Communication, has called for the need to prioritizing technical skills in tertiary institutions in the quest to tackle the problem of unemployment in the country
Ufuophu-Biri, who was answering questions at the National Executive Conference 2023 and Award Presentation of the National Association of Polytechnic Students held at Delta State Polytechnic in Oghara, blamed the high rate of unemployment in Nigeria on the country’s economic situation.
He highlighted the significance of practical skills taught in polytechnics and their relevance to the job market, saying “The reason polytechnic and university graduates struggle for jobs is due to the lack of employment opportunities”.
The well-travelled scholar noted that certain jobs require technical skills taught in polytechnics, which graduates from other disciplines may not possess.
He commended the Chinese education system for prioritizing technical skills over theoretical knowledge.
While lauding the immediate Delta Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for establishing more universities and polytechnics, he encouraged students to think beyond their fields of study and recognize the importance of entrepreneurship in achieving success.
Earlier, while addressing the audience during his acceptance speech for the award, Ufuophu-Biri announced the institution’s plan to grant scholarships to 15 students from the Oghara community annually to assist them in their academic pursuit.
While dedicating the honor to Nigerian students, particularly those facing financial difficulties, he pledged to establish and fund an award and scholarship program within the school, covering the fees of 12 deserving students each year.
The conference also recognized the outstanding works of two individuals: Mr.Efedi, Chukwuemeke the school Registrar, and Mr. Samuel Enudi, the Dean of students affairs.
In his remarks Comrade Ezekiel Oghenetega who was the first Guest Speaker noted that there were several prospects and benefits of technology in polytechnics.
