The Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, Professor Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, says no fewer than 27 worthy students of the institution will begin to enjoy scholarship as a way of reducing the financial burdens of parents.
He said 15 of the beneficiaries, who will be sponsored by the institution annually will come from the host community, Oghara, while the remaining 12 will be selected from the institution and personally sponsored by him every year.
Professor Ufuophu-Biri made the pledge during an interactive session with his students during the conference of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) at the institution’s campus in Oghara.
The former Head of Department of Mass Communication, Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, who was honoured with NAPS’ outstanding leadership award during the conference, rued the employment situation in the country, just as he frowned at the underrating of polytechnic graduates.
He highlighted the significance of practical skills taught in polytechnics and their relevance in the job market as against what is obtainable in university education, commending the Chinese for prioritising technical skills in their educational system above theoretical knowledge.
“The polytechnic students do the work, and the university guys would take the glory.
“The reason polytechnic graduates and university graduates struggle for jobs is due to the lack of employment opportunities in the country,” he said.
Ufuophu-Biri, while recognising and lauding the former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for establishing more universities and polytechnics, encouraged his students to think out of the box by recognising the importance of entrepreneurship in achieving success.
In his message to students facing obstacles, the rector shared his personal story of overcoming hardships during his education, urging them to persevere in order to reach their goals.
Meanwhile, NAPS at the conference also recognised the outstanding work of two individuals, the school Registrar, Mr. Efedi,
Chukwuemeke and the Dean of Students Affairs, Mr. Samuel Enudi for their contributions to the growth and development of the school.
Dignitaries at the event included, a former Special Assistant to former Governor Okowa on Students Affairs, Comrade Ezekiel Oghenetega, past and present leadership of NAPS, heads of departments, lecturers, among others.
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