By Rosemary Okoduwa
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development on Thursday received delegations from two student bodies of the University of Benin during separate courtesy visits aimed at fostering collaboration and support for youth focused initiatives.
The visiting groups included the University of Benin Management Sciences Students’ Body and the Association of Southern Nigerian Students (ASONS), University of Benin Chapter.
Speaking during the visit, the Speaker of the UNIBEN Management Sciences Students’ Body, Isinugben Christopher, said the delegation visited the ministry to formally intimate it of their forthcoming business summit themed “Business Beyond Borders” and to seek partnership and support.
According to him, the summit is designed to equip students with practical knowledge and relevant skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
He explained that discussions at the summit would focus extensively on opportunities in the digital space, with special emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies, stressing that students must remain informed and adaptable to stay competitive in the global environment.
Christopher disclosed that over one thousand students are expected to participate in the summit, which will also feature panel sessions showcasing the programmes and activities of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Also speaking, the Director of Health, Association of Southern Nigerian Students (ASONS), UNIBEN Chapter, Ojeabulu Deborah, said the association is proposing several impactful programmes aimed at improving students’ welfare and amplifying their voices within the academic community.
She noted that one of the proposed initiatives is a town hall meeting titled “Our Opinion Matters,” designed to provide students with a platform to openly discuss challenges affecting them within the academic environment.
According to her, resource persons and relevant stakeholders would be invited to address issues raised during the engagement, while recommendations from the discussions would be documented and forwarded to appropriate authorities for consideration.
Deborah further revealed that the association is also proposing a female outreach programme targeted at supporting vulnerable female students through the distribution of sanitary pads and food items, as well as sponsoring young women interested in starting small-scale businesses.
Responding, the Edo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah commended the student groups for their innovative and people-oriented initiatives, describing them as commendable efforts toward youth empowerment and nation-building.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting programmes that equip young people with relevant knowledge, entrepreneurial skills, and opportunities that will enable them become productive members of society.
Hon. Abdallah emphasized that the administration of Senator Monday Okpebholoin remains committed to youth inclusion, women empowerment, and human capital development, adding that students must take advantage of platforms that promote innovation, leadership, and self-development.
The commissioner further encouraged the students to remain focused, disciplined, and proactive, noting that collaboration between government institutions and youth bodies is essential for addressing societal challenges and achieving sustainable development across the state.
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