By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Contrary to speculations that the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Center (DASAC) in Ikot Ada Idem, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, is just a “glorified technical school,” a recent unscheduled visit revealed a vibrant hub of learning and skill development.
Dr. Essien Ndueso, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation, led journalists on a tour of the center yesterday. Media professionals were impressed as they observed trainees and instructors engaged in various activities in the bustling but serene institution.
Rector Prof. Enoidem Usoroh, accompanied by Chief Churchill Udoh, Chairman of the Governing Council, and other management staff, described the visit as timely and significant.
During the tour, journalists saw trainees in several departments, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Fashion and Design, Catering, Shoe Making, Fisheries, Livestock, Poultry, Snail Farming, Furniture, and Welding and Fabrication.
Prof. Usoroh stated that since the Governing Council’s inauguration, the center has been fully operational. “Since May 20, 2024, when the Governing Council was inaugurated, we have set modalities, opened registration portals, and conducted tests and examinations for trainees and trainers,” he said.
The Governor, through the Education Commissioner, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, officially launched full operations of the center on September 11. The Governor promised to sponsor at least five trainees per local government area, resulting in 250 trainees at the center—200 government-sponsored and 50 private trainees.
Private trainees pay a fee of 250,000 naira, which covers accommodation, training kits, and other expenses, excluding feeding. The center offers five faculties: Agriculture, Hospitality and Lifestyle Management, Metal and Steel Fabrication, Wood Technology, and ICT, alongside general entrepreneurial training.
Chief Udoh added that DASAC is a full-boarding institution with the capacity to accommodate up to 500 trainees per batch, meeting modern UNESCO standards. “Despite over 2,000 applications, we decided to start with 250 trainees because, as entrepreneurs, we believe in starting small and growing big,” he explained.
Before admission, all trainees completed aptitude tests, written exams, practical assessments, and screenings conducted by a team from the University of Lagos. Chief Udoh also highlighted the management team’s proven integrity and track record, which he believes will elevate the institution’s status.
