By Eghosa Emily
The Directorate of Corporate Change Communication and Performance Management (Transformation Office), under the aegis of the Office of the Edo State Head of Service, has concluded the Graduate Development Programme Innovative Project Presentation and Closing Ceremony for Cohort ‘2’.
Speaking at the event, which held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), in Benin city, the Permanent Secretary of Transformation Office, Dr. Mrs. Joy Akhigbe, described the programme as a strategic initiative aimed at retaining top talents in the Edo State Civil and Public Service. She maintained that the initiative targets first-class graduates of Edo State origin from universities across Nigeria, offering them immediate employment in the public sector.
Dr. Akhigbe explained that the programme involves a one-year rotational engagement across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). She said that the approach provides participants with broad understanding of the Civil Service operations, which equip them to excel in any MDA to which they will be posted, and that at the end of the programme, participants are expected to present innovative projects which the government can implement.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Hospital Management Agency, Dr. Efosa Aisien, commended the programme for its focus on developing innovation and resourcefulness among participants. He described the initiative as strategic, enabling young graduates to influence the system positively. He expressed confidence in the trainees, noting their potentials to contribute significantly to Edo State’s development.
Agoni Clinton and Timothy Maryjane were recognized as the overall best trainees. Both expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for the opportunity to gain professional and leadership exposure, which they credited for enhancing their skills and confidence.
The event was attended by key officials of the Edo State Government, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr. E. Nyamali; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Wealth Creation, Mrs. B. J. Igbinobaro; the Permanent Secretary of Human Resource, Mr. G.O. Igberease; amongst others.
The programme underscores the commitment of the Edo State Government to nurturing and retaining exceptional talents in the Public Service, aimed at bolstering innovation and driving sustainable development in the State.
