Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the state’s digital economy through youth empowerment and innovation. Speaking while receiving the certificate of approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the establishment of the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Omuma, the governor said the move represents a long-term investment in human capital development.
“Our outstanding records so far in the Skillup Imo Initiative, with over 50,000 young people trained in various skills, have inspired us to take legal measures to institutionalize this transformative approach to equipping our people with digital skills that will drive entrepreneurship across all sectors,” Uzodimma said.
He explained that the new institution will focus on innovation, science, and technology to prepare young people for the global digital economy. According to him, “I emphasized the need for our graduates to emerge not just as job seekers, but as entrepreneurs, innovators, and globally competitive professionals equipped to drive the digital economy.”
Uzodimma acknowledged the financial implications of managing a fourth state-owned university but described it as a worthy investment. “Admittedly, the cost of maintaining a fourth State-owned university can appear daunting. However, a closer evaluation of the potential value addition, human capital development, and economic stimulation for our dear State reveals that the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Omuma, is a visionary investment, conceived to propel our digital economy through a well-equipped, future-ready youth population,” he stated.
Beneficiaries of the Skillup Imo Initiative have also expressed their appreciation. Chinenye Statia Ewuzie wrote, “Grateful beyond words. Thank you Skill-Up Imo Project, an incredible initiative of His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma, through the Hon. Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi. This gift, a laptop and the right mindset, has truly set me on the path to greatness.”
Another beneficiary, Eugene Maryanne Akunnaya Chelly, shared, “Thank you, our Digital Governor, Senate Hope Uzodimma, for this opportunity. Skillup Imo, technology opportunity people. One youth, one laptop. At least my efforts weren’t in vain after all.”