AGBOR/Nigeria: Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, has highlighted the importance of practical education and hands-on learning as a solution to Nigeria’s excessive reliance on foreign goods.
The Governor, who stated this during the inspection of key projects at the University of Delta, Agbor, urged for a shift away from purely theoretical knowledge towards practical skills that empower individuals to manufacture goods for local consumption and export, ultimately contributing to national development.
The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, expressed the belief that Nigeria and other developing nations could significantly reduce their dependence on imported products by embracing technical education and improving productivity.
During the inspection, Governor Oborevwori and his team assessed various ongoing projects, including the Faculty of Environmental Studies, Lecture theatres, Engineering Workshops, the Solar farm at Mother and Child Hospital Owa-Alero, and the 11.3km Ute-Okpu – Ute-Elugu Road in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the State.
The Governor applauded the quality of work accomplished by the contractors and commended the previous administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for initiating these projects. He also announced that the projects were set for inauguration in the coming days, underscoring the commitment of his government to complete ongoing projects and launch new ones to improve the lives of the people of Delta State.
Governor Oborevwori praised the practical skills demonstrated by students during the inspection, citing an example of students making cups from bamboo. He emphasized the need to prioritize practical knowledge over theoretical knowledge, asserting that this approach aligns with the government’s agenda to uplift the state.
Furthermore, regarding the Ute-Okpu – Ute-Elugu Road, the Governor, accompanied by the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Mr. Charles Aniagwu, revealed that the 11.3km road consisted of 7.8km of fresh construction and 3.5km of resurfacing. He commended the contractor for the remarkable work done and assured the public that the road would be inaugurated within the next two weeks.
Governor Oborevwori’s call for practical education and self-sufficiency in local production resonates with the ongoing efforts to boost Nigeria’s economic development and reduce its dependence on imported goods.