Fed Poly Ukana Rector Pledges To Work With The Host Communities

The Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, Amb. (Mrs) Eduma Enobong Essien has pledged to work with Institution’s Host Communities.

The Rector made this pledge during a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Clan Head, Ukana West Clan, His Highness, Okuku Sylvanus Obot Udoekanem (JP) on Friday May 23, 2025.

According to her, the Host Communities form the very foundation upon which the Polytechnic stands, that, they deserve utmost consideration.
In her words, “Our Host Communities are stakeholders in the Polytechnic, and therefore, I am pleased to pledge that, i will work with you for the smooth running of the Institution.

Mrs Essien also outlined her vision for Federal Polytechnic Ukana to achieve a ranking among the top 10 Institutions in Nigeria, emphasizing the progress already made toward this goal.

“With God by our side, this Institution will be ranked  among the best 10 in the country. We are actively pursuing key metrics, including the accreditation of more programmes, which is well underway  and the development of a Google School Environment. To that end, we are actively encouraging and supporting our Staff in attending conferences and publishing in academic journals, all of which will contribute to the Institution’s overall ranking,” she explained.

Earlier in the meeting, the Clan Head of Ukana West Clan, Okuku Sylvanus Obot Udoekanem (JP), addressed several concerns affecting the Host Communities highlighting areas where improved collaboration with the Polytechnic could provide mutual benefits. He specifically requested that the Host Communities receive fair consideration in employment opportunities and contract awards related to the Polytechnic. Additionally, he proposed that the designated Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) duly appointed by Host Communities will be thoroughly briefed on their responsibilities to facilitate communication with the Host Communities and the Institution. He also requested contractors to visit the Palace prior to commencing projects, upholding an established custom.

In her response, the Rector assured the Clan Head that his concerns were heard and would be carefully considered in future decision-making processes impacting the Polytechnic and its Host Communities. She emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation and partnership between the Host Communities and the Institution

Taking the vote of thanks, the Registrar of the Polytechnic, Mr. Jeremiah Jeremiah Akpabio expressed his gratitude to the Clan Head and Village Heads for their warm welcome and reception. He thanked all those who attended the meeting despite their busy schedules and lauded the Rector for her respect for the Royal Fathers. Mr. Akpabio, a native of the area, pledged his unwavering commitment to ensuring that the youth of the Host Communities are well-represented within the Polytechnic.

The highlights of the visit, was the exchange of gifts with the Clan Head and Village Heads, presentation of kola to the Rector and her delegation, who in turn offered gifts as a token of respect and appreciation.

Mrs Essien was accompanied by members of the Polytechnic’s Management and Staff.