Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, has paid an unscheduled fact-finding visit to the Government Technical College, Obubra, to assess the institution’s current condition and identify areas requiring government intervention.
Odey made the visit while travelling to Yala, following a formal letter from the institution drawing his attention to its pressing needs and the challenges affecting its operations.
The Commissioner explained that the visit was aimed at obtaining first-hand information to enable the Science and Technical Education Board conduct a comprehensive needs assessment of the college and ensure identified requirements are captured in the state’s 2027 budget.
He said the assessment would provide the necessary basis for government to prioritise interventions and address the institution’s needs in line with established procedures.
Odey further disclosed that he would personally brief the Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, on the situation at the college, noting that the Governor had demonstrated strong commitment and passion for improving the education sector in the state.
He added that where there was an opportunity for intervention before the 2027 budget, the Governor would be duly briefed for possible urgent consideration, depending on the availability of resources and applicable procedures.
The Commissioner stressed that all government interventions must follow due process, including proper needs assessment, budgetary appropriation and approval before implementation, assuring the institution that its concerns would receive appropriate attention.
He commended the management of the college for formally communicating its needs to the relevant authorities, describing the approach as appropriate and necessary for effective government response. He assured the school that the relevant agencies would be engaged to take the necessary action.
Responding, the Executive Secretary of the Science and Technical Education Board, Mrs. Ikip Okora, thanked the Commissioner for taking time to visit the institution personally, describing the gesture as timely and reassuring.
The Principal of the college, Chief Kirien Otio, also expressed appreciation to Senator Odey for the fact-finding visit, saying his decision to assess the situation firsthand demonstrated concern for the institution and its students.
Both officials assured the Commissioner of the college’s readiness to provide all necessary information and documentation that would assist the government in assessing its needs and planning appropriate interventions.
By Patricia Ogbeche
