By Ewere Okonta
In a momentous occasion that brought together academia and entrepreneurship, the Special Adviser to the Delta State government on entrepreneurship development, Dr. Donald Peterson, and his entourage were welcomed as guests by the Management team of the University of Delta to unveil a groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionize the landscape of youth engagement and enterprise development in Delta State.
With a vision as bold as it was ambitious, Dr. Peterson unveiled the Deltaprenureship initiatives, a comprehensive plan designed to empower the youth of Delta State through innovative avenues such as Agroprenureship and Techprenureship. Under the Agroprenureship initiatives, students of the University and youths in the surrounding communities would be introduced to cutting-edge hydroponic and aerophonic farming systems. Collaborating with four universities and two polytechnics in Delta State, the office of the Special Adviser on Entrepreneurship Development aimed to leverage these programs to align with the MORE SMART agenda of the Delta State government, fostering sustainable growth and economic empowerment.
On the Techprenureship front, the office of the Special Adviser had curated a suite of soft skill sets encompassing data analytics, cybersecurity, blockchain technology, and digital marketing, equipping participants with the tools necessary to thrive in the digital age. By bridging the gap between education and industry, these initiatives sought to not only reduce unemployment but also to enrich the lives of Deltans by creating tangible value and opportunities for growth.
In response to Dr. Peterson’s visionary plans, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, lauded his efforts in the realms of philanthropy and entrepreneurship, expressing the University of Delta, Agbor’s unwavering commitment to supporting and collaborating on these transformative initiatives. With admiration in her eyes, Prof. Chiemeke remarked, “Dr. Peterson, you’re moving with the trend of time, and we are honored to be the first university to partner with you on this exciting journey. We stand ready to provide all the assistance needed to ensure the success of these initiatives.”
The event, attended by key members of the University management team including Prof. Patricia Mbah (Deputy Vice Chancellor), Barr. Richmond Omagbemi (Registrar), Dr. Mrs. Vera Okonoko (Librarian), and Mr. Sunny Ikeogwu (Bursar), culminated in a moment of appreciation and collaboration as the Vice Chancellor presented Dr. Peterson with a souvenir, symbolizing the spirit of partnership and progress that defined the day’s proceedings. As the sun set on this historic gathering, a new chapter of innovation and collaboration had begun, paving the way for a brighter future for the youth of Delta State.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor. 08037383019.
Ewereokonta20@gmail.com
www.ewereokontablog.org.ng
