No fewer than 135 young people in Akwa Ibom State on Saturday, January 31, 2026, graduated from a free, intensive ICT training programme held at the ARISE ICT Hub in Uyo.
The graduation ceremony marked the successful completion of the capacity-building initiative sponsored by the Personal Assistant to the Governor on Volunteer Services, Ambassador Sunday Usikhifo, and hosted at the ARISE ICT Hub, No. 8 Etuk Street, Uyo.
Congratulating the graduands, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, commended their dedication and praised the sponsor for aligning the initiative with the objectives of his ARISE Agenda.
The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Science and Digital Economy, Engr. Frank Ekpenyong, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strategic partnerships that will equip more youths with relevant digital skills and position them to harness opportunities in the digital economy.
He noted that the state government would continue to support initiatives that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven employment, adding that discussions were ongoing to expand collaborations with public and private sector players in the ICT space.
In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Youths Development, Dr. Ekerette Ekanem, hailed the sponsor for his consistent efforts toward youth empowerment and development, describing the programme as timely and impactful.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Ambassador Sunday Usikhifo described the ceremony as a checkpoint in a journey powered by curiosity, persistence, and problem-solving. He explained that the training was designed to move participants beyond basic computer use to practical skills in building, securing, and optimising digital systems.
“ICT is not just about computers; it is about communication, connection, and turning ideas into impact,” he said.
Linking the programme to the digital transformation goals embedded in Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, the Governor’s aide urged the graduates to see technology as a tool for solving real human problems. He cited the recently launched ARISE Youth Employment Portal as an example of how digital solutions can simplify processes and create opportunities at scale.
Ambassador Usikhifo stressed that while technologies and programming languages will continue to evolve, the most valuable asset the trainees had acquired was the mindset to keep learning and adapting.
“Use your skills responsibly. Build systems that include, not exclude. Create technology that serves people, not just profit. Protect data, respect privacy, and remember that behind every user is a human being,” he charged.
He encouraged the graduates to be bold innovators and lifelong learners, noting that while some would go on to work with global firms, others would build home-grown solutions that address challenges.
“You are not just users of technology; you are shapers of the future,” he declared.
The sponsor also appreciated parents and guardians for their support and commended the instructors and facilitators for their patience and dedication throughout the training period. He further hinted at post-training support for outstanding participants, including mentorship and linkages to internships and startup opportunities, to ensure the skills acquired translate into economic value.
High-performing students were recognised during the ceremony, while all 135 graduands received certificates of completion amid applause from families, friends, and invited guests.
The event attracted stakeholders from the technology ecosystem, government officials, and youth groups, all of whom described the initiative as a practical step toward reducing unemployment and building a skilled workforce in Akwa Ibom State.
