Polytechnic to introduce education technology courses, tackles drug abuse

The Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba,  Abia State, has announced plans to introduce Educational Technology (EdTech) courses in line with directives from the Abia State Ministry of Education.

The initiative seeks to equip students with competencies in digital tool integration, instructional design, and contemporary pedagogical practices to strengthen teaching and learning within the institution.

The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Christopher Okoro Kalu, disclosed this while addressing members of the Academic Board at the Polytechnic Auditorium.

He said the institution has been positioned  to comply with the Ministry’s directive, assuring that all newly introduced courses would undergo proper accreditation before the planned relocation to the Osisioma campus.

Before the relocation to Osisioma Campus, these courses must either be fully accredited or have completed the necessary resource verification processes,” he said.

Kalu further revealed that infrastructural development at the Osisioma campus is progressing.

He explained that the Ministry of Public Utilities has commenced work on water reticulation at the campus, with a projected completion timeline of one month and a durability span of up to 50 years.

The Rector added that the Ministry of Works is currently overseeing the construction of internal roads, covering both Phase One and Phase Two, while work has also begun on the administrative building, which is expected to be completed by September.

‎He also acknowledged the Abia State Government for the official handover of facilities previously constructed by Abia State University, Uturu.

‎Addressing concerns regarding the relocation, Kalu assured staff and students that their welfare remains a top priority.

‎In addition, he disclosed that modern equipment has been provided to support the establishment of an EYE Content Hub for students of Film and Multimedia Production.

‎The hub, to be located at the institution’s ICT building, is designed to enhance practical training and align students with current industry standards.

In a related development the polytechnic has strengthened its collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command, to curb drug abuse among students.

Kalu approved the partnership on Wednesday while receiving the NDLEA State Coordinator, CN Chigbu Odomelam Chilee, and his delegation at the institution’s Council Chamber.

Chilee raised concern over the rising incidence of substance abuse in the state, noting that young people are among the most affected.

The NDLEA official called for the introduction of drug education programmes, peer sensitisation initiatives, and campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles among students.

The Rector described drug abuse as a major threat to societal development, emphasising the need for sustained intervention.

“Nothing destroys a nation quicker than drug abuse. Aside from its impact on mental health, it also contributes to poverty,” he said.

Kalu approved the training of students in the dangers of drug abuse as part of the institution’s preventive strategy.

He disclosed that the training sessions would be held between May and June this year with another round scheduled for November, and stressed the importance of continuous sensitisation.

culled from punch