The Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba has announced plans to introduce Educational Technology (EdTech) courses in compliance with directives from the Abia State Ministry of Education, as part of efforts to strengthen digital teaching and learning capacity within the institution.
The Rector, Christopher Okoro Kalu, disclosed this while addressing members of the Academic Board at the institution’s auditorium, stating that the initiative would equip students with skills in digital tool integration, instructional design and modern pedagogical practices.
Kalu assured that all newly proposed courses would undergo proper accreditation or resource verification before the planned relocation of programmes to the Osisioma campus.
He also revealed that infrastructure development at the new campus is progressing, with the Abia State Ministry of Public Utilities already undertaking water reticulation works expected to be completed within one month and designed to last up to 50 years. Meanwhile, the Abia State Ministry of Works is constructing internal roads covering Phase One and Phase Two, alongside work on the administrative building scheduled for completion by September.
The Rector further acknowledged the Abia State Government for handing over facilities earlier developed by Abia State University Uturu to support the polytechnic’s expansion.
As part of efforts to improve practical training, Kalu disclosed that modern equipment had been provided for the establishment of an EYE Content Hub for students in Film and Multimedia Production. The hub, to be located in the institution’s ICT building, is expected to enhance hands-on learning and align training with industry standards.
In a related development, the polytechnic has strengthened collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command to address drug abuse among students.
During a visit by the NDLEA State Coordinator, Chigbu Odomelam Chilee, concerns were raised about increasing substance abuse among young people, prompting calls for drug education programmes, peer sensitisation initiatives and lifestyle awareness campaigns within the institution.
Kalu described drug abuse as a major threat to national development and approved structured training sessions for students between May and June, with another round scheduled for November as part of sustained prevention efforts.