Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Ebonyi State Government is set to hand over the State’s Aeronautics University under construction to the Federal Government to be used for the establishment of the South-East College of Aviation.
Governor Francis Nwifuru stated this in Abakaliki at the weekend during the flag off of the State Scholarship scheme.
The governor who did not give details noted that he has received a letter from the Federal Government on the planned establishment of the college in the state.
He explained that the scholarship beneficiaries will be absorbed to continue at the ICT University and the Aeronautics University.
He said: ” Works are progressing in a very satisfactory way in the ICT and Aeronautics University, and we intend to absorb beneficiaries of this great scheme in those universities.
“As I am talking to you, by the grace of God, the Aeronautics University, in the next one month and some days, will be a federal university because the Federal Government have already written to me, as the Governor of Ebonyi State, that they are willing to establish Aviation Training School in Ebonyi, and there is nothing different between Aeronautic University and Aviation Training school.”
The governor at the event explained that three women did not travel with the overseas scholarship beneficiaries because they were heavily pregnant.
He also explained that another three were disqualified on health grounds.
He noted that the state was sponsoring 745 students to pursue advanced degrees in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
The flag off ceremony took place at the Ebonyi International Airport Onueke at the weekend where the governor expressed his pride and commitment to the state’s educational development.
He emphasised that the scholarship programme represents a significant investment in the state’s future, prioritising human capital development.
“This celebration is not just an investment in education, but an investment in the future of our State and no infrastructure can be bigger than this. It is an event that demonstrates our commitment to human capital development which occupies centre stage in our Government,” he said.
The Governor urged the beneficiaries to maximize their opportunities while studying abroad and within Nigeria.
“I urge you, our scholars, to immerse yourselves fully in your studies, embrace the cultures you encounter, and build networks that will be invaluable to your growth,” he advised.
However, he reminded the scholars of their responsibility to contribute to the state upon completing their studies.
“But remember, your ultimate mission lies here at home. Upon completing your studies. For emphasis, we expect you to return to our State and channel your expertise into sectors that need your innovation, creativity, and leadership.
“We signed bonds with the institutions. We also signed bonds with the students. And we also have a mutual understanding.
“And we believe they are Ebonyians. So we have that confidence that we have a culture. And we are brilliant with that kind of culture. So we are very much confident that they are going to come back.
“Our own projection is to send at least 300. 204 are going now. Left with 96, and that 96 will definitely leave this year too around September to complete them 300.
“Our intention is to project these 300. They will do their masters and do their PhD.”
Governor Nwifuru explained that the 541 students admitted into various Nigerian universities have already started.
“Currently, what is supposed to be schooling is about 594 out of 700. But what is schooling now after the screening and the processes they also passed through at various universities, we found out that what is qualified is about 541.
“And 541 is now already schooling. They have taken first semester exams. They are already going into their research work,” he said.
The governor noted that the scheme is modelled after the HIPAC programme, which was initiated and instituted by Former Governor Sam Egwu which presented an opportunity for the state to rewrite its history as it concerns its hitherto educational backwardness.
“This idea, which is a replica of the HIPAC programme, will produce graduates that will man our universities and modern secondary schools across the state.
He reminded the students that they are ambassadors of the state and country.
“As you embark on this transformative journey to a world-class institutions abroad and across Nigeria, let me remind you, our great leaders, of the immense responsibility that comes with this privilege. You are not just a student, and I want you to know that very well.
“You are an ambassador of our great state. Your action, your words, and your achievements will reflect not only on you, but on our collective identity as Ebonyi people. At all times, in your private and public undertaking, be guided by this.
“We have expectation that you will graduate on record time and return to contribute your quota towards the development of Ebonyi State.
“Your case must be different from those that refuse to participate and contribute in the development of our great state and others. We expect you to graduate on record time.”
