She also assured the delegation that the current administration at UNICROSS is committed to addressing and correcting any lapses previously associated with the SIWES programme.
UNICROSS Media Team
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has described the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) as a vital partner with higher institutions in advancing manpower development in Nigeria.
Professor Bassey stated this on Friday, March 13 2026, while receiving officials from the Cross River State office of ITF, alongside Directors and Coordinators of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), in her office.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Thomas Ojikpong, the Vice Chancellor emphasised the importance of exposing students to practical training and real-world equipment. She commended ITF for its role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application through the SIWES programme.
She also assured the delegation that the current administration at UNICROSS is committed to addressing and correcting any lapses previously associated with the SIWES programme.
Earlier in his remarks, Mr Victor Igbo, who led the delegation on behalf of the Area Manager of the ITF Calabar Office, appealed for improved equipping of the SIWES office at UNICROSS to enhance operational efficiency. He also expressed appreciation to the university’s management for having a separate and independent bank account for SIWES.
Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the university, the Director of SIWES at UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Udey, who described the Vice Chancellor as a development-oriented leader, expressed confidence that the university would continue to record significant progress under her leadership.