… grants best graduating students IT slots with AKSG Documentary Team
The Senior Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, has reiterated the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and human capacity development in alignment with the ARISE Agenda.
Dr. Ndueso made this known at the graduation ceremony of students trained in film cinematography, directing, acting, scripting, and content creation, organized by the FACE Initiative in Uyo on Saturday.
Represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Dr. Amanam Hillary UmoUdofia, he emphasized that the event was a direct reflection of the “R” in the ARISE Agenda—focused on Rural Development, Human Capacity Building, and Economic Expansion.
“There is nothing entirely new under the sun, but a mentor can show you the steps to become better. Mentorship grants you access to opportunities,” he stated, urging the graduands to remain focused and authentic in their creative pursuits.
He described the programme as a practical demonstration of Governor Umo Eno’s vision of equipping young people with market-relevant skills for the growing creative economy. As part of the government’s support, he announced that the best graduating students would be offered internship placements with the Government House Press Centre’s Documentary Team, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and mentorship.
Industry Experts, Stakeholders Charge Graduands to Stay Focused
Speaking at the event, guest speaker and member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Mrs. Benedette Fred, encouraged the graduands to remain consistent, maintain integrity, and continually seek knowledge.
“Content is the new oil—it pays, and it pays in dollars,” she remarked. “It’s good to have talent, but talent alone isn’t enough. You need to be coached, mentored, and trained.”
Mrs. Fred also urged the graduates to register with the Actors Guild of Nigeria, highlighting its role in protecting actors from exploitation. “We meet every last Thursday of the month at Discovery Park. If anyone exploits or harms you, the Guild stands with you.”
FACE Initiative: A Launchpad for Creative Careers
In her remarks, the convener of the FACE Initiative, Amb. Ekaette Frank, described the graduation as a new beginning for the participants.
“This is not the end, but the beginning of a fresh journey into the creative world. The five-week training wasn’t a waste—it has prepared you to step confidently into the industry as content creators and storytellers,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of collaboration, networking, and seizing emerging opportunities within the creative industry.
Highlights and Awards
The ceremony featured:
- Presentation of certificates and medals to graduating students
- Screening of short films, with Group B’s “Life No Balance” winning the top spot
- Recognition awards to dignitaries for their support
- Cash grants of ₦500,000 each to four outstanding students in recognition of exceptional performance
The event was widely praised as a significant step in realizing Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly in empowering young Akwa Ibomites to thrive in the creative economy.
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