The Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Hon. Beloved Dan Anike, has introduced a comprehensive human capital development initiative designed to enhance education and empower the youth within the region. This ambitious programme seeks to remove financial barriers to education while equipping young individuals with the skills necessary for success in an increasingly competitive world. As part of this effort, the chairman has announced full scholarships for selected students and has pledged to cover the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) registration fees for all Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) students in the local government area.
The scholarship scheme includes several key components: 50 fully sponsored “Greater Tomorrow” scholarships, WAEC registration support for 1,700 students, 100 middle-level professional training opportunities in health and education, and 100 fully sponsored scholarships for students pursuing medical, engineering, law, and software engineering degrees. Additionally, 500 undergraduate students will receive bursaries, 100 postgraduate students will benefit from study grants, 1,000 individuals will gain access to targeted vocational skill development, and 1,500 youths will be registered for training in emerging technologies within Enugu East.
Speaking at the launch event, which took place at the local government headquarters, Hon. Anike underscored the crucial role of education in shaping a prosperous society. He emphasized that investing in human capital is fundamental to the region’s progress and long-term development. “Education is the foundation of a prosperous society, and by supporting our students today, we are securing a better tomorrow for Enugu East,” he remarked.
A significant aspect of the initiative is its technology-driven component, which is designed to equip young people with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy. This part of the programme will focus on training in areas such as coding, digital marketing, and other high-demand technology fields, ensuring that the youth of Enugu East are well-prepared to capitalize on emerging career opportunities. Hon. Anike stressed that the initiative goes beyond academic scholarships, as it seeks to equip students with practical knowledge that will give them a competitive edge in the workforce. “We are not just providing academic scholarships; we are preparing our students for the future,” he stated. “The tech world is rapidly evolving, and this programme will ensure that our youth are well-positioned to take advantage of new career opportunities in technology.”
The launch event was attended by various dignitaries, including traditional rulers, education stakeholders, students, parents, and community members. The event also featured the official commencement of the registration process for the Emerging Tech initiative, which aims to integrate modern technology training into the educational framework of Enugu East. The state’s Secretary, Hon. Chidiebere Onyia, attended the event as a representative of Governor Mbah. In his address, Onyia commended Hon. Anike for aligning the initiative with the governor’s broader vision for sustainable development through education. He highlighted Governor Mbah’s commitment to investing in education and incorporating technology into the learning process, which he described as essential for adapting to the rapidly expanding digital sector.
Onyia also encouraged teachers in Enugu East to continuously develop their skills in order to remain competitive in today’s evolving educational landscape. He urged educators to embrace modern teaching techniques that align with 21st-century education trends, thereby ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. “We do not joke with our teachers, we do not joke with the school processes, and we encourage you to continue improving your skills because that is the only way you can align yourselves with the 21st-century education process,” he stated.
The initiative has been widely praised by education stakeholders, who view it as a transformative step toward addressing educational disparities in the region. Teachers, parents, and students alike have expressed gratitude for the programme, recognizing its potential to alleviate financial burdens on families and enhance learning outcomes for students.
Hon. Anike reiterated that this initiative is part of a larger strategy aimed at developing human resources, improving educational infrastructure, and fostering a more inclusive society. “This is just the beginning. We are committed to ensuring that every child in Enugu East has the opportunity to succeed, no matter their background,” he assured.
The launch of this human capital development programme has set a positive precedent for education in Enugu East and is expected to inspire similar initiatives in other local government areas within the state. By prioritizing education and technological advancement, the initiative is poised to create a lasting impact, empowering the youth and contributing to the long-term growth of the community.