In a collaborative effort between the United States Government Exchange Alumni Association (USGEAA)-Rivers Chapter and the Rivers ICT Department, 21 indigent girls in Port-Harcourt have been equipped with valuable digital skills. This transformative initiative, funded by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria and executed by the local USGEAA chapter, aimed to provide these young women with the tools they need to succeed in the digital age.
Over the course of six weeks, the beneficiaries of this programme underwent comprehensive training that covered a wide array of digital skills. These skills included front-end web development, digital marketing, digital lifestyle, graphic design, and more, enabling the girls to become proficient in various aspects of the digital landscape.
During the event, Professor Edward Ezedike, the President of the USGEAA-Rivers Chapter, expressed his profound gratitude to the U.S. Mission for their unwavering support and trust in the association’s ability to execute such a project. He also appealed to the state government to consider supporting similar initiatives in the future.
Ezedike took a moment to advise the beneficiaries, encouraging them to maximise this opportunity for personal and financial growth. He emphasised the importance of translating their newfound skills into a brighter future for both themselves and their loved ones.
Dr. Kingdom Nwanyanwu, the General Secretary of the USGEAA-Rivers Chapter, urged the girls to leverage their training to positively impact the Niger Delta region. He emphasised the need for them to continue developing their skills, positioning themselves as competitive candidates in a world full of international opportunities.
Furthermore, Professor Ijeoma Vincent-Akpu, the Vice President of the USGEAA-Rivers Chapter, emphasised the importance of remaining focused and pursuing excellence. She reminded the girls that they have much to offer and encouraged them to distinguish themselves in their chosen paths.
The Head of Technical and Operations at the ICT Department in Rivers, Mr. Austin Dimkpa, commended the girls and their families, expressing his satisfaction with their dedication throughout the training period. He also thanked USGEAA for their partnership and called for future collaborative efforts for the benefit of the youth.
The graduation ceremony included the presentation of certificates to the participants, symbolising their successful completion of the programme. Additionally, 10 selected participants received laptops as starter kits, presented by Emeritus Professor Simeon Achinewhu, a former Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Port-Harcourt.
Miss Anita Kpobari, the overall top graduate, spoke on behalf of her fellow graduates, expressing gratitude to the organisers and sharing their aspirations for the future. She illustrated how the programme had positively impacted their lives and future prospects.
Parents and guardians of the beneficiaries also conveyed their appreciation to USGEAA and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria for the life-changing opportunity given to their daughters.
USGEAA, the umbrella body for all Nigerian recipients of United States Government-sponsored exchange programmes, serves as a vital platform for accomplished academics and technocrats. It collaborates closely with the United States Embassy and Consulate in Nigeria to harness its expertise for the betterment of society.
