April 28, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Sen. Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., on Tuesday received a delegation from the Initiative for the Upliftment of Disabled Persons (IFUDIP) on a courtesy visit at his office in Calabar. The delegation, led by the Centre Manager, Mrs. Barbara Manager, visited to seek approval and partnership with the Ministry of Education for the establishment of a vocational skills centre for children and young people living with disabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Amr. Mma Ekanem Okon explained that the proposed centre is designed to address the growing need to empower persons with disabilities through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship. She noted that the initiative will provide an alternative pathway for individuals who may not fully benefit from conventional education systems, enabling them to acquire practical, hands-on skills tailored to their abilities.
She further highlighted that the centre will promote economic independence by equipping beneficiaries with vocational skills such as tailoring, ICT, crafts, agriculture, and other trades. According to her, this will help reduce dependency and enable them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Amr. Okon also emphasized that the centre will foster entrepreneurship by encouraging young people with disabilities to establish their own businesses, become employers, and serve as sources of inspiration within their communities. She added that IFUDIP is seeking the Ministry’s approval to operate, as well as partnership support to deliver accessible, inclusive, and quality education services.
In his response, Professor Odey commended the initiative, describing it as a laudable effort aimed at empowering vulnerable children. He reiterated the commitment of Governor Bassey Otu’s administration to improving the welfare and educational opportunities of children living with disabilities across the State.