The Cross River State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revolutionizing the education sector, as it welcomed a delegation from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Ministry of Education Headquarters in Calabar.
The KOICA team, led by Country Director Kim Eunsub, visited the state to assess the Smart School project currently implemented in Obudu and explore avenues for further collaboration. Other members of the delegation included Deputy Director Park Soehee, Field Manager Professor Yang Ilseok of UBION KOICA PMC, Project Manager Hwang Paejoon of UBION KOICA, Manager David Nicwa of KOICA Nigeria, and Project Manager Oluwatosin Adelele of KOICA Nigeria.
The team was received on behalf of the Governor, His Excellency Senator Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu, by the Commissioner for Education, Senator (Associate Professor) Stephen Odey, alongside the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Justine Beshel, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Barrister Francis Oyije.
During the meeting, Senator Odey lauded KOICA’s efforts and praised the sustained partnership that has birthed the Smart School initiative in Obudu. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Otu is determined to transform education through innovation and digital learning.
“A memo is currently before the Governor for the establishment of one SMART SCHOOL in each of the 18 LGAs of the State. We are ready to replicate the Obudu Smart School model statewide through strategic partnership and cooperation,” Senator Odey stated.
The KOICA delegation, impressed with the progress in Obudu, expressed optimism for future partnerships, commending the state’s dedication to educational development. They pledged to continue supporting Cross River State in its journey toward digital and inclusive learning.
The recent establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa was also highlighted as a key achievement by the Otu-led administration, reflecting its drive to provide qualitative and modern education across all levels.
The visit marks a significant step toward strengthening international cooperation in education and positions Cross River State as a model for smart, tech-driven learning in Nigeria.
