The management of Federal Polytechnic Ukana in Essien Udim Local Government Area says it has secured accreditation for 21 academic programmes from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), marking a major milestone in the institution’s academic development.
The polytechnic also received approval from NBTE and the Federal Ministry of Education under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme to operate as a skills training centre in fashion design, leatherwork, paint making, printing and decoration, among other trades.
The Rector, Mrs. Eduma Essien, announced the achievements at the weekend, while presenting her stewardship report covering the past 12 months.
According to her, the accreditation covers 19 National Diploma (ND) and three Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
“One of the significant milestones recorded in this first year is in the area of accreditation of academic programmes. We successfully secured accreditation for 21 academic programmes covering ND and HND programmes,” she said.
She added that the approval to operate as a TVET skills training centre reflects “effective academic planning, compliance with regulatory standards and strong inter-departmental collaboration.”
Mrs. Essien noted that the institution is addressing infrastructural gaps, with several projects sponsored by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund at various stages of completion.
To strengthen its revenue base and promote practical training, the polytechnic has also commenced production activities, including tissue paper manufacturing, furniture making, paint production and block moulding.
In the area of international engagement, 27 staff members received TETFund scholarships to attend an international conference in Kigali, a development the rector said has enhanced the institution’s global visibility, research collaboration and adoption of best practices in teaching and learning.
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, commended the rector’s efforts in bridging infrastructural gaps, noting that her vision aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s education reforms under the ARISE Agenda.
He urged students to take advantage of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) scheme to ease financial pressure and support their academic pursuits.
The event, attended by staff, management, traditional rulers and community leaders, also featured the commissioning of the polytechnic’s Skills Training Centre and Entrepreneurship Development Centre.
