By Solomon OKPO
As part of renewed efforts to promote tourism development in Akwa Ibom State, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Grace Akpan, has advocated for the integration of tourism-related content in school quiz competitions across the state.
Mrs. Akpan made this known on Thursday during a courtesy visit by Wilhenry Education Foundation, a state-based NGO, led by its Project Director, Mr. Inore Umoh.
The Permanent Secretary stressed the need for schools to educate students on their immediate environment, including natural endowments and iconic tourist attractions, especially during General Studies classes. She called on education stakeholders to include tourism-focused questions in quiz contests to promote awareness and appreciation of Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural heritage.
According to her, with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda placing high priority on tourism, it is imperative for students to familiarize themselves with key tourist sites such as Ibeno Beach, Ibom International Hotel and Golf Resort, Unity Park, Victor Attah International Stadium, Ibom Tropicana Mall, Mary Slessor Cairn, the mystical Blue River, and Ibom Plaza.
Mrs. Akpan further highlighted that some of the historical events linked to these sites — including the amalgamation of Nigeria by Lord Lugard, the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, and the abolition of twin killings by Mary Slessor — are already captured in history textbooks, and should be reflected in the quiz content to deepen students’ historical consciousness.
Earlier, Mr. Inore Umoh explained that their visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Ministry and seeking support for the Foundation’s forthcoming Schools Challenge Programme scheduled for May 2025. The initiative will engage students from 16 secondary schools in Uyo in Science and General Studies quiz competitions.
Umoh also revealed that the Foundation has been active for over a decade, with notable interventions including the rehabilitation of science laboratories in three schools. He expressed admiration for Mrs. Akpan’s consistent promotion of tourism and the ARISE Agenda through various media platforms, describing her efforts as commendable.
The courtesy visit ended with the presentation of a gift to Mrs. Akpan by the visiting team, which included the Foundation’s Treasurer, Mr. Ubeka Charles, and the Coordinator of Logistics, Mr. Diamond Inyang.
