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From Isaac Job, Uyo
The pioneer Provost, Federal College of Education, Ididep, in Ibiono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Edem Ntuk, has commended the federal government’s ingenuity in education and promised to demonstrate the academic excellence of the institution by providing a conducive atmosphere for learning and research.
Ntuk made the pledge at the maiden matriculation ceremony of 583 students in the institution.
The event, held on the college’s campus, attracted Nigeria’s educational and political elites who gathered to witness the birth of a new citadel of learning in Akwa Ibom State.
In his inaugural address, the Provost expressed appreciation to the federal government for the actualisation of what he described as a “long-awaited dream”.
He highlighted the college’s foundation, having been established by the Federal Government in May 2023, and outlined its academic structure, which comprises six Schools and twenty departments offering the National Certificate in Education.
“Today, I am happy to announce that a total of 583 students have been offered admission into our College for the 2024/2025 Academic year,” Dr. Ntuk stated, assuring the new students and stakeholders of his administration’s deep commitment to making FCE Ididep “a model College of Excellence in Nigeria.”
“We are committed to providing a congenial atmosphere for scholarship and research, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their professions,” the Provost stated.
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He extended profound gratitude to the key figures instrumental in the college’s establishment. He specifically thanked the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Commission for Colleges of Education and TETFund.
He also placed on record the institution’s appreciation for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who approved the college’s establishment, and the Akwa Ibom State Government, which provided the land.
He also paid special tribute to Senator (Dr.) Ita Solomon Enang, whom he credited for his pivotal contributions and for providing initial scholarships for indigenes.
Senator Ita Enang delivered a goodwill message filled with nostalgia. He spoke glowingly of the roles played by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari, highlighting the cross-administrative collaboration that brought the project to fruition.
The historic event also featured goodwill messages from the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, who brought the felicitations and support of Governor Umo Eno.
The Executive Chairman of Ibiono Ibom LGA, Hon. Asuakak Umoh, and the Paramount Ruler of the area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Ime Inyang Udousoro, also addressed the gathering, pledging the support and hospitality of the host communities.
The climax of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation oath by the College Registrar, Mr. Nsemeke Udoakpan, who led the 583 students in swearing allegiance to the rules and regulations of the college, thereby formalising their status as bona fide members of the academic community.
The event, witnessed by other principal officers of the college including the Bursar, Mr. Samuel Oyighocho, and the Librarian, Dr. Celina Nongo, successfully launched the academic journey of the pioneer students and the institution itself, signalling a new chapter for teacher education in Nigeria.
