School Of Culinary Studies And Hospitality Will Boost Entrepreneurial Growth - Kenim Onofiok

Nsikak Akpan 

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Education on Wednesday 2nd July, 2025, held a Public Hearing on a crucial bill seeking to establish the Akwa Ibom State School of Culinary Studies and Hospitality Management, along with a governing Board to oversee its operations.

The bill, titled A Bill For A Law To Establish the Akwa Ibom State School of Culinary Studies/Hospitality Management And A Board, and For Other Matters Connected Thereto, aims to provide specialized training in culinary arts and hospitality services. If passed into law, it is expected to foster job creation, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance the state’s economic development, particularly in the tourism and service industries.

Chairman of the Committee and Member Representing Oron/Udung Uko State Constituency, Hon. (Mrs.) Kenim Onofiok, described the bill as a key milestone aligning with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which emphasizes educational advancement and entrepreneurial growth.

"Let me therefore thank our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD, for providing an enabling environment for the legislature and for always giving assent to life-touching bills," Hon. Onofiok stated.

She also commended the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, the lead sponsor, Hon. Dr. Itorobong Etim, and members of the Committee for supporting a people-focused legislative initiative.

In his address, Speaker Otong, represented by the Member Representing Uruan State Constituency, Dr. Itorobong Etim, emphasized that the bill reflects the Assembly’s commitment to institutionalizing culinary and hospitality education in Akwa Ibom in a structured and forward-thinking manner.

"Hospitality management is a green field with vast untapped potential. This bill positions Akwa Ibom to lead in food tourism and service excellence," he said, adding that the initiative complements the State’s rich tourism offerings, including Unity Park, the Bridge of No Return, and Ibeno Beach.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anietie Udofia, said the proposed law will help streamline the tourism sub-sector while reinforcing training and certification for hospitality professionals.

In strong support of the bill, the Association of Professional Chefs and the Hotels and Tourism Board noted that the legislation will provide pathways to certification and career advancement for Akwa Ibom youths.

The Public Hearing was attended by representatives from the Ministries of Education and Justice, the Coordinator of CHRAN, other key stakeholders, and members of the Education Committee.