Akwa Ibom State Government has said education is a critical pillar of the ARISE Agenda of the state that requires collective intervention efforts by all, including individuals and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

The government’s position was made known recently in Ikono Local Council during the presentation of a library to one of the foremost girls’ schools in the state, Immaculate Conception Secondary School (ICSS), Itak, by the old girls of the school, under the aegis of ICSS Alumnae.

Commissioning the library, the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, expressed appreciation to the alumnae for the intervention and called on others to emulate the laudable gesture.

Represented by the Director, Quality Assurance in the Ministry, Dr. Roselyn Mfon, the commissioner stressed that development of the education sector should not be left to the government alone. He solicited the collaboration of all.

Reiterating that education is a critical sector in the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno-led administration, the commissioner thanked the alumnae for identifying with the government in the development of the education sector, adding that the gesture would add value to learning.

He also expressed gratitude to the management of the school for opening up to collaboration and partnership by the alumnae, noting the government’s readiness to partner any investor willing to make valuable contributions towards the growth of the education sector, which is very crucial in the ARISE Agenda.

Accompanied by the in-coming President of the alumnae association, Mrs. Mfon Lawrence, the commissioner thanked the old girls for their contributions towards the success of the event and expressed optimism that the incoming executive would add even more value to the development of their alma mater.

While handing over the library project to their alma mater, President of ICSS Alumnae, Mrs. Cornelia Dominic Umoh, said the gesture was part of measures by the old girls to give back to their alma mater and expressed hope that the project would enhance reading culture of the students.

Receiving the library, Principal of ICSS, Mrs. Imaobong Iyamba, expressed gratitude to the state government for the commissioning and the alumnae for embarking on the worthy cause.