. As Dr. Ekanem Reaffirms govt’s commitment to partnership, integration
The winners of the 2025 ARISE Youth Skills Week Pitch Competition, have received cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding innovations, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), marking the successful conclusion of the maiden edition of the youth-focused contest.
Addressing participants, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr. Ekerette Ekanem, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to supporting and integrating young innovators into the ministry’s programmes and other youth development initiatives.
Represented by the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Anthony Isonguyo, the Commissioner commended the creativity of the pitchers and expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for prioritising youth development in governance.
He further lauded the Governor for approving and sponsoring the World Youth Skills Week, describing it as a demonstration of his administration’s youth-friendly policies and its support for innovation and enterprise.
Also speaking, the ministry’s consultant, Mr. Emmanuel Etukudo, congratulated the winners and urged them to pursue strategic partnerships with relevant ministries, agencies, and institutions to transform their ideas into viable ventures. He stressed that determination remains key to sustaining innovation.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Jahazeil Uko expressed gratitude to Governor Eno for believing in the youths and giving them a platform to showcase their creativity. He appealed for continued technical and institutional support to aid the successful implementation of their projects.
The winners, drawn from diverse innovation clusters, showcased ideas designed to promote technology-driven solutions, with the Pitch Competition serving as a launchpad for greater opportunities within and beyond the state.
The highlight of the ceremony was the formal presentation of bank cheques to the winners by the Commissioner’s representative.
