BY ANDREW IKEHI
The Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA) is optimistic that the proposed Delta State College of Health Technology, Ovrode in Isoko North Local Government Area of the State, when fully established would scale up the Under-Five Healthcare Program of the state government.
The Chairman of the Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Hon Ferguson Onwo expressed optimism at a public hearing on a bill for a law to establish the Delta State College of Health Technology, Ovrode.
Hon Onwo who represents Isoko South Constituency 2 in the House, explained that the proposed College of Health Technology in Ovrode, is an innovation by the State Government, in collaboration with the World Bank for the purpose of improving the health sector and reducing the under-five mortality rate in the state.
Flanked by some other members of the committee, including Hon Perkins Umukoro, Bernard Odior and Festus Utuama, Onwo maintained that the choice of a rural community for the proposed health institution shows the government’s commitment to grassroots development.
He expressed appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for choosing a community in Isoko nation for the College, saying the people are very delighted to have such an institution in their locality.
Onwo encouraged the host community of the proposed institution to protect it when it eventually comes to fruition as it is a privilege and opportunity for positive development and global recognition.
The lawmaker charged the people to continue to support the administration of Governor Oborevwori in delivering on his MORE Agenda.
He said “We are very proud of this innovation between the State government and the World Bank in establishing a College of Health Technology in Ovrode, which has a rural connotation.
“The Isoko people are receptive to what the Governor has done and I therefore encourage the host community where it is domiciled to protect the College when eventually established.” “I want to thank Governor Oborevwori for the initiative. We are proud of it and we will continue to support him to ensure that the MORE Agenda is on cause.” Onwo said.
He assured that the House Committee on Health will collate all memoranda received from stakeholders as it relates to the bill and report back to the House.
The Health Committee Chairman commended stakeholders who submitted memoranda as well as those who made oral presentations during the hearing held at the State Assembly Complex, Asaba.
Present at the public hearing were representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Provost of the College of Health Technology, Ufuoma, and representatives of environmental workers amongst others.