BY PATRICIA OGBECHE
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator (Prof.) Stephen Odey on Tuesday 21, October 2025 represented the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, at the True Elites Group Training Program on Technology and Artificial Intelligence, held in partnership with the Cross River State Government through the Ministry of Youth Development and Skills Acquisition at the Cross River State Library Complex, Calabar.
The two-day program, tagged “Empowering Cross River State Youth in Tech and Artificial Intelligence,” was designed to equip young people with 21st-century skills in technology, creativity, and innovation.
Speaking at the event, Senator (Prof.) Stephen Odey commended His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, and Her Excellency, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, the First Lady of Cross River State, for their unwavering support and passion for education. He also appreciated the convener of the program, Mrs. Bassey Ekpenyong, for organizing such an impactful and timely initiative for students.
The Commissioner noted that the program aligns perfectly with the vision of the present administration to empower young people through education and skills acquisition.
“I want to sincerely thank all of you for the great work you are doing for us. We are truly grateful. As a state, we are not going to relax, we will continue to encourage and support our students to do even better, just as we have seen here today,” he said.
Senator (Prof.) Odey also commended the Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, Barr. Odum-Ijom Ukam, for his collaboration and commitment to youth empowerment in the state.
Addressing school administrators and educators present, he expressed appreciation for their dedication and hard work:
“To those of you in charge of our education sector, the school heads, principals, and all other officers, I say a big thank you for your dedication and commitment. You are doing an excellent job, and I am very happy to have you here today.”
Speaking to students, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of embracing the opportunities provided by the government, urging them to take full advantage of programs designed for their growth and success.
“As a government, we are not relenting. We are introducing reforms and policies aimed at providing a more conducive learning environment. When you excel, you bring pride and honor to Cross River State. So please, do not disappoint us — keep soaring high, keep striving for excellence, and continue to make us proud,” he added.
He concluded by appreciating the organizers of the event and assuring them of the government’s continued partnership in initiatives that advance education and youth development across the state.
During the event, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, was celebrated and prayed for on the occasion of his 66th birthday, with Senator (Prof.) Odey cutting the cake on his behalf.
Also present at the event were Her Excellency, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, ably represented by Dr. Comfort Oko; Dr. (Mrs.) Awatt, Chairman, Library Board; the convener, Mrs. Bassey Ekpenyong; alongside other dignitaries, stakeholders, and participants from various schools across the state.
