The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, has charged graduands of the Foundation for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Nigeria (FOPCHEN) Solar Energy training to utilize the skills they have acquired for their benefit and that of the nation at large.

Prof. Obi gave the charge at the graduation ceremony and award of certificates to trainees of the FOPCHEN-sponsored solar energy training held at the institution's Senate chambers recently.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Eno Grace Nta., the Vice-Chancellor commended the Director of FOPCHEN and the entire team for bringing the training to the University of Calabar, noting that the skills the graduands have acquired will be a source of revenue for them.

She urged the graduates to put in their best effort to maximize what they have learned, emphasizing that with integrity, self-discipline, and commitment, they will achieve great things in their future endeavours.

The Director of FOPCHEN, Prof Bekeh Ukelina thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the warm reception, stating that the essence of the 6-week training on solar energy was to promote independence among youths.

.He said   that FOPCHEN, an American-based non-governmental organization, has trained students of the University of Calabar and indigenes of the Akai Effa community in solar energy (solar panel), welding, and mushroom cultivation skills.

Earlier, the  Director of External Relations, University of Calabar, Dr Blessing Ntamu congratulated the graduates on the success of the training, emphasizing that the programme was designed to empower them to start their businesses, become entrepreneurs, and employers of labour

She stressed the need for diverse skills to survive in the current economic situation in Nigeria, highlighting the University of Calabar's commitment to empowering its students to thrive in the harsh economy.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to the graduating students.