The Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, Abia State, has announced plans to introduce Educational Technology (EdTech) courses and strengthen its anti drug campaign through a formal partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command.
The Rector, Dr. Christopher Okoro Kalu, disclosed the EdTech initiative while addressing members of the Academic Board at the Polytechnic Auditorium, noting that the move aligns with directives from the Abia State Ministry of Education. The courses are designed to equip students with competencies in digital tool integration, instructional design and contemporary pedagogical practices to strengthen teaching and learning within the institution.
Kalu assured that all newly introduced courses would undergo proper accreditation before the institution's 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 stated.
On infrastructural development at the Osisioma campus, the Rector revealed that the Ministry of Public Utilities has commenced water reticulation work, with a projected completion timeline of one month and a durability span of up to 50 years. The Ministry of Works is also overseeing the construction of internal roads covering Phase One and Phase Two, and work has begun on the administrative building, expected to be completed by September.
Kalu also acknowledged the Abia State Government for the official handover of facilities previously constructed by Abia State University, Uturu, and 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.
On the NDLEA partnership, Kalu approved the collaboration 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 among young people in the state, calling for the introduction of drug education programmes, peer sensitisation initiatives and campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles.
The Rector described drug abuse as a major threat to societal development, warning that "nothing destroys a nation quicker than drug abuse. Aside from its impact on mental health, it also contributes to poverty." He approved training sessions for students on the dangers of drug abuse, scheduled for May and June, with another round fixed for November.
