Alumni of Federal Government College Enugu have begun construction of a N2 billion digital hub designed to equip students with digital skills, entrepreneurship training, and opportunities in the emerging technology economy.
The Federal Government College Enugu Old Students Association (FGCEOSA) has commenced construction of a N2 billion Innovation Hub aimed at preparing students for opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.
The project was officially unveiled on Saturday during a groundbreaking ceremony held at Federal Government College (FGC), Enugu.
At the event, the alumni association also inaugurated a solar-powered borehole donated by the SON Eze Trust Foundation in partnership with FGCEOSA to improve water supply within the school.
Speaking during the ceremony, Leader of the Innovation Hub Planning Committee, Odera Udutchay, described the project as a landmark development in the institution’s history.
According to him, the innovation hub is designed as a transformative centre that will encourage creativity, entrepreneurship, technological advancement, and research collaboration among students.
Udutchay said the facility reflects the alumni association’s commitment to giving back to the institution that shaped many of its members.
He disclosed that the project would cost approximately N2 billion, covering construction, digital infrastructure, equipment, and the manpower needed to run the centre.
The project is expected to be implemented in phases over two years, with the first phase focused on civil, mechanical, and electrical works scheduled for completion within one year.
President of FGCEOSA, Nnadozie Eze, said the project originated in 2023 as the official legacy initiative marking the association’s 50th anniversary celebration.
He explained that the vision behind the innovation centre is to build a world-class learning environment where students can develop technology-driven skills and entrepreneurial capacity.
According to Eze, the facility will provide programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), coding, digital literacy, robotics, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership development.
He said the hub is intended to prepare students to become creators of technology and economic opportunities rather than passive consumers.
Eze added that the project aligns with the economic aspirations of Enugu State and Nigeria by nurturing future innovators, engineers, software developers, scientists, and business leaders.
He further noted that the facility is conceived as a green building, incorporating environmentally sustainable features aimed at promoting energy efficiency and environmental awareness.
Responding, the Principal of the college, Ezekiel Ogbuanya, described the development as a dream fulfilled for the institution.
He said the innovation hub would improve the school’s capacity to participate in Computer-Based Test examinations conducted by bodies such as WAEC and NECO while significantly enhancing the overall learning environment.
A representative of the Federal Ministry of Education, Dan Enimali, commended the alumni association for the initiative and encouraged other old students’ associations to support educational development through similar interventions.
Traditional Ruler of Obeagu Ugwuaji, Igwe Chris Nnia, also praised the alumni body for extending its support to the host community through medical outreach programmes and pledged community support toward the successful completion of the project.
Highlights of the event included a free medical outreach where about 500 students, teachers, and residents received treatment, as well as the inauguration of an Alumni Secretariat within the school premises.
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