The Rector, Bayelsa State Institute of Entrepreneurship and Vocational Training (IEVT), Dr. Zuobomudor Edwin Agbana, has called for strong partnership between the Institution and the State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to foster economic growth in the state.
The Rector made the call when he led a high-powered delegation to pay a courtesy visit on the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in her office in Yenagoa.
Dr Agbana noted that, in a bit to pursue an impactful partnership, to strengthen women’s economic empowerment through agriculture and aquaculture, there was need for collaboration with other stakeholders of which Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is a veritable Stake in the state.
He therefore stressed that the visit was to formally seek for collaboration with the Ministry to train women in fisheries and rice farming under the Transforming African Agricultural Universities, to meaningfully contribute to Africa’s Growth and Development (TAGDev 2.0) initiative; a sponsored programme being implemented by the Institute.
Dr Agbana further added that the TAGDEV 2.0 initiative, supported by international partners is designed to bridge the gap between academic training, practical, and community-focused agricultural development.
He expressed optimism that through this partnership, women would benefit from modern training modules, hand-on field demonstrations, and start up support to enable them operate profitably in fisheries and rice farming value chains.
In her response, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Faith Izibenua Zibs who expressed delight at the visit, described it as timely and strategic, stressed that the Ministry remains committed to advancing the sustainable use of marine resources, in areas such as improvement of fish production, enhancing the livelihoods of the coastal and riverine communities, with special emphasis on empowering women, who plays key roles in local fisheries and rice cultivation.
The Commissioner assured the Management of the Institute of the Ministry’s full support and pledged to facilitate necessary approvals, technical expertise, and policy backing to ensure the collaboration a huge success.
She commended the Institute for championing inclusive development through its TAGDev 2.0 initiative and expressed optimism that the partnership would unlock new opportunities for women, reduce poverty, and boost food security in the State.
