The University of Cross River State and the United Nations Children’s Fund are exploring areas of partnership following a visit by UNICEF officials to the institution, which called for the establishment of a state office to strengthen operations.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, made the request yesterday in Calabar when she received the delegation led by Mrs Gabriel Bolatito, Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Specialist at UNICEF’s Enugu Office, which supervises programmes in the South East and South South.
She explained that overseeing both regions from Enugu presents logistical concerns and described Cross River State as “peaceful and conducive for development initiatives.” She added that the Government of Cross River State “will gladly provide all that is needed,” while the university “will readily provide institutional support, including access to facilities within or outside the campus environment.”
Prof. Bassey said the institution is expanding practical learning through “the development of wood engineering, hospitality, and catering and pastry hubs, as well as the procurement of modern photography equipment to enhance youth training.” She also suggested creating WASH Clubs in universities and said the University “is prepared to collaborate on programmes aimed at addressing drug abuse among young people”.
Mr Emmanuel Bamidele, UNICEF Skills Acquisition and Livelihood Officer, said the agency’s 2022 sensitisation programme at the university was “highly successful” and noted that its 2026 priority includes “expanding internship, apprenticeship, and entrepreneurship opportunities.”
