Ruth NWORIE
The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Procurement, Unyime Idem, has sponsored four indigenes of Akwa Ibom State to the United Kingdom for fully funded Master’s degree programmes.
The latest beneficiaries form the second batch of scholars sent abroad by the federal lawmaker as part of his pledge to train Akwa Ibom youths overseas to enhance self-reliance and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
The beneficiaries and their respective institutions are:
Ebong, James Gideon – Heriot-Watt University
Abai, Emem Michael – University of Portsmouth
Ukpeh, Ikponoabasi Imo – University of East London
Esitikot, Blessing Nse – University of Exeter
Speaking during a brief send-forth ceremony at his office within the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, Idem, who also provided financial support for the scholars, urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them by excelling in their studies and representing the state with distinction.
“You’re part of hundreds of Akwa Ibom youths that I promised to train abroad for self sufficiency, value addition to the state and global competitiveness.”
“Everything you need to be comfortable in the United Kingdom has been provided. Your school fees, accommodation, feeding, ticket to and from the United Kingdom, and other sundry expenses have been taken care of, so I expect you to study and come out as the very best. Make me proud. Make Akwa Ibom State proud. Make Nigeria proud. Remember that you’re our ambassadors in the United Kingdom.”
“The programme allows you to take up part-time jobs at your convenience, so make good use of this opportunity.”
“Do not forget, this training is to afford you the opportunity to gather the necessary knowledge and exposure needed for your self development and the transformation of Akwa Ibom State. So as you go, bear in mind that you’ll come back and also train others. That’s one sure way to developing our state to compete globally. I do this bearing in mind that you’re tomorrow’s leaders, so we must invest in you.”
In their response, the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the lawmaker for what they described as a life-changing opportunity and pledged to make him, the state and the country proud.
They have since arrived and commenced their studies in the United Kingdom.
