By DADA AYOKHAI
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State achieved another major milestone in Akoko Edo local government with the laying of the foundation stone for the School of Mining and Management in Igarra, the administrative headquarters of Akoko Edo local government.
This new school will serve as a satellite campus for the Edo State Polytechnic in Usen.
Akoko Edo is the local government of the Edo State deputy governor, Hon Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, who replaced the impeached former deputy governor, Hon Philip Shaibu.
During the event, Governor Obaseki also launched the Digital Resource Center for the local government, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to improving internet access and connectivity to boost the state’s digital economy.
Emphasizing his administration’s comprehensive approach to improving the state’s educational sector, Gov Obaseki stressed that “education is the key to development.”
The event is a way of fulfilling his administration’s key policy of providing high-quality vocational and technical education for the people of Edo.
He also stressed that he is committed to ensuring that students in Edo have access to quality education that will prepare them for success anywhere.
He stated, “Since assuming office, we have made significant improvements in the education system in Edo State. We began by investing in the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (Edo BEST) programme, starting from the foundational level of education. Our children now receive high-quality education. We are proud of the progress made. Our children in basic school can read at the age of ten and compete globally.”
Additionally, he highlighted that the foundation laying ceremony signifies the fulfilment of his promise to build an educational system that equips students to enter the workforce after school, emphasizing further that his administration’s focus has shifted to technical and vocational institutions to enhance the skills of young people, attract relevant industries, and create a dynamic labour market capable of absorbing skilled talents.
In appreciation of the governor’s laudable efforts, the Igarra royal father, the Otaru of Igarra, bestowed a chieftaincy title on Governor Obaseki as the Okasime of the Igarra kingdom.
Governor Obaseki, in turn, expressed his gratitude to the monarch and the good people of Akoko Edo for the honour bestowed upon him.
