How We Can Build the Next Generation with Character, Competence and Capacity in Ebonyi State: A Short Note
By Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh
As we strive to build a brighter future for Ebonyi State, let’s reflect on our journey. If I’m correct, the last time we made significant efforts to develop human capacity was during Dr. Sam Ominyi Egwu’s administration. Since then, we’ve seen a shift in focus, and initiatives like the Staff Development Centre and Office of Attitudinal Change have become dormant.
Fast-forward to 2025, and we’re lamenting about the quality of public service. But have we stopped to think about the root cause? It’s time to acknowledge that our human resources have depreciated. When we ask the governor to make changes to his cabinet, we need to consider where we’ll find the competent individuals to replace them.
This brings me to a crucial point. As we approach the exam season for our final-year students, let’s encourage and celebrate our young achievers. Imagine the governor hosting a ceremony to recognize top performers in PCE, JAMB, SSCE, NECO, and other exams. A simple handshake and words of encouragement can ignite a fire within them.
We often see sterling performances from young students from neighbouring states like Anambra, Abia, Imo, and Enugu, but I believe our children can also perform beyond expectations. Ebonyians are not laggards; we’re miracles waiting to be discovered. We’re the salt of the nation, and it’s time to unleash our potential.
To the Education and Human Capital Development commissioners, I urge you to join forces and create opportunities for our young people to shine. Let’s rekindle the flame of excellence and show the world what Ebonyians are capable of achieving. Like the Chinese proverb says, “The best time to plant for tomorrow was yesterday, another time is today.”
Let’s seize this moment and build a brighter future for our state.
Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh PhD, is the President of Ebonyi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture