NOA urges heads of institutions to promote campus debate initiative

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on heads of tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State to promote the Campus Initiative of the agency for the overall benefit of students.

The Akwa Ibom State Director of NOA, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, said this in a statement issued in Uyo on Tuesday.

According to Mkpoutom, the national campus initiative was designed by NOA to foster national integration. It aims to promote critical thinking and amplify youth voices in public discussions.

“The state-level debate topic is, “Technology innovation and entrepreneurship.

“This topic analyses how digital technologies and innovative thinking can unlock entrepreneurial potential and drive inclusive economic growth, as well as promoting students’ critical thinking and articulation of ideas on a wide range of issues,” Mkpoutom noted.

Mkpoutom emphasised that campus debate was not merely an extra-curricular endeavour, but rather an essential component of a holistic education that prepares students for the complexities of modern life.

He added that it would also foster a culture of debate that empowers students to become informed, articulate and engaged citizens who are prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

The director said that letters of invitation to participate in the exercise had been sent to some higher institutions across the state.

Mkpoutom added that all higher institutions in the state are qualified to participate.

He called on all heads of tertiary institutions in the state to provide their students with the opportunity to participate in the national programme by visiting the state headquarters of the agency for details.