The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Professor Stephen Odey, has commended the Initiative for the Upliftment of Disabled Persons (IFUDIP) over its planned establishment of a skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development centre for persons with disabilities.
Odey gave the commendation when he received the group on a courtesy visit to his office in Calabar.
He described the initiative as a laudable effort aimed at empowering vulnerable children and reiterated his commitment to improving the welfare and educational opportunities of children with disabilities in the state.
The Commissioner expressed strong support for the proposed project, acknowledging the importance of establishing a vocational skills centre for children and young people with disabilities, describing the proposal as timely and impactful.
Odey assured the delegation of the Ministry’s willingness to partner with the organisation, while indicating that the necessary approval processes would be duly considered. He further reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting inclusive education across the state.
Earlier in her introductory remarks, the Centre Manager, Ms Barbara Manager, stated that the visit was to seek approval and partnership with the Ministry for the establishment of a vocational skills centre for children and young people with disabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Mma Ekanem Okon disclosed that the proposed centre aims to address the growing need to empower persons with disabilities through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. She explained that the initiative would provide an alternative pathway for those who may not fully benefit from conventional education systems, enabling them to learn practical, hands-on skills tailored to their abilities and strengths.
The team lead further explained that the centre will promote economic independence by equipping beneficiaries with vocational skills such as tailoring, ICT, crafts, agriculture, and other trades – helping to reduce dependency and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society.
She also emphasised that the centre will foster entrepreneurship by encouraging young people with disabilities to create their own businesses, become employers, and serve as sources of inspiration within their communities. She added that the organisation is seeking the Ministry’s approval to operate, as well as partnership support to deliver accessible, inclusive, and quality education services tailored to the unique needs of persons with disabilities.
Patricia Ogbeche
