Governor Francis Nwifuru has disclosed that the newly established Ebonyi State ICT University is fully operational and will admit up to 1,000 students as part of the state government’s drive to expand access to quality education and curb social vices among youths.
The governor made this known while speaking with journalists at his Oferekpe Agbaja country home in Izzi Local Government Area during the Oferekpe Day celebration.
Governor Nwifuru explained that academic activities have already commenced at the university, with students admitted and lectures ongoing. According to him, the institution began with about 200 to 300 students and is steadily working towards reaching its maximum intake of 1,000 students.
“The ICT University is already alive. Students have been admitted and the academic session is ongoing. They started with about 200 or 300 students, and the target is up to 1,000. As of the last briefing I received, over 200 students have already resumed,” the governor said.
He stressed that the establishment of the ICT University is part of deliberate efforts by his administration to bring education closer to the people, especially youths, as a strategy to address rising drug abuse and other social challenges in the state.
“In propelling our youths for the future, we discovered that drug abuse is hitting deep, even from secondary school level. That is why we brought education close to their doorstep.
"Education is the best tool. Once you are educated, you can distinguish between what is right and wrong,” Nwifuru stated.
The governor also encouraged Ebonyi youths to take advantage of the institution rather than seeking education opportunities outside the state, noting that the ICT University is designed to provide skills, knowledge, and employment-ready training.
On other issues, Governor Nwifuru confirmed that the Ebonyi State Government has recovered the girls recently reported in a viral video to have been taken to Anambra State.
He said the victims have been reunited with their families and are receiving appropriate care and rehabilitation.
He further clarified that the proposed clampdown on street hawking would only commence after the completion of the state’s industrial centre, which he said would create alternative means of livelihood for affected persons.
“Once the industrial centre is ready, you will hear from us. There is nothing hidden about it,” the governor assured.
Governor Nwifuru reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and sustainable development, urging communities to continue supporting government initiatives aimed at securing a better future for Ebonyi State.
