The Vice-Chancellor of Ebonyi State University of ICT, Oferekpe, Prof. Ernest Ituma, has charged students to acquire practical skills that will enable them to overcome unemployment after graduation.
Ituma gave the advice on Monday in Abakaliki during an interview with reporters on the sidelines of an orientation for newly admitted students of the university.
He said the world is increasingly driven by technology, artificial intelligence, automation, data and innovation, stressing that students need to develop relevant skills to remain competitive.
According to him, the university is technologically driven and focused on producing graduates capable of competing and succeeding in a rapidly changing world.
“We believe that education must go beyond theory. It must include practical knowledge, skills acquisition, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship and problem-solving,” he said.
Ituma urged the students to see their admission as a platform to acquire knowledge, develop practical skills, discover their potential and contribute to societal development.
He said the orientation was designed to familiarise the students with the university environment, academic culture, rules and regulations, support services, expectations and available opportunities.
Ituma advised the students to develop the habit of continuous learning and shun examination malpractice, cultism, bullying, cybercrime, drug abuse and other forms of misconduct capable of jeopardising their future.
He stressed the importance of good character and mutual respect within the university community.
The Vice-Chancellor further encouraged the students to build meaningful relationships and engage in activities capable of creating opportunities for their future.
Ms Nneamaka Nkwuda, a student of the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, said the orientation had provided valuable lessons that would positively shape the students’ university experience.
Nkwuda pledged to abide by the rules and regulations of the institution.
