She is an Education Consultant, Integrative Life Coach, and farmer.
With 19 years of experience in the education sector, our guest, Mrs. Lebari Edo-Ukpong has partnered with countless educational institutions across Africa, Europe, and North America, and worked with over 2,000 students.
Her company, Inside Edge Ltd, works with both international and national education institutions to optimize academic, professional, and personal performance for students, teachers, and families.
In this interview with select media practitioners in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Capital, our guest speaks on the upcoming Technical Education Fair holding at the E-library Hall, Babangida Avenue, Uyo.
Enjoy the EXCERPTS by Editor-In-Chief, Century Newspaper, IME SILAS:
Your Firm is organizing a Technical Education Fair in Uyo. Could you tell us more about it, Madam?
The STEM Education Fair, taking place Friday, February 21st and Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 from 10 am to 4 pm, focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The fair provides professionals and students with invaluable insights into pursuing STEM courses or careers at leading international and national universities through access to experts, practical resources, and tailored guidance. Additionally, technology companies will be in attendance to showcase industry potential.
Who are your target audience and what do they stand to benefit from the event?
The STEM Education Fair is geared towards professionals, undergraduate, postgraduate and secondary school students, school counsellors and parents interested in pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers.
Attendees would benefit from comprehensive guidance on STEM pathways and careers including requirements, and how to tailor their academic plans to align with global standards.
The fair provides insights into available scholarships, including guidance on crafting competitive applications. Attendees can directly engage with representatives to discuss admissions, assess their qualifications, and ask questions tailored to their goals. Students in particular will discover STEM-related career opportunities, helping them make informed choices for their future.
There will also be workshops and presentations to equip attendees with vital skills, such as writing compelling personal statements and preparing for STEM jobs and visa interviews.
I am certain that after this fair attendees will feel motivated and well-prepared to pursue STEM careers or courses, gaining confidence in their academic and career paths.
There will also be some unique opportunities and information on exciting specialisations that can fast-track your journey from learner to earner in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics -STEM.
From the acronym ‘STEM’, your focus is on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. So, why only ‘STEM’?
The focus on STEM is driven by the growing global demand for professionals in these fields and the critical role STEM plays in innovation, economic development, and solving modern challenges.
Encouraging students to explore STEM careers ensures that they are equipped with skills for the future workforce which will address gaps in areas like technology, healthcare, and engineering. As you know practically every facet of life now is driven by technology and science so a lawyer can also learn how to leverage technology to optimise performance.
STEM education promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, which are essential for navigating complex global issues. By introducing students to these opportunities early, they can make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures, develop a competitive edge, and contribute to societal advancements.
One of the features of this event, according to the circular is that participants would speak directly to top university representatives. What’s the import and benefits of such interface?
Speaking directly with top professionals and university representatives at the STEM Education Fair offers several unique benefits as attendees can discuss their academic profiles, interests, and aspirations directly with professionals and university representatives, gaining tailored advice on their chances of admission. Representatives would provide detailed information on entry requirements, ensuring students understand what is expected of them for specific courses or institutions. Students can get information on scholarships and funding opportunities, learning directly from decision-makers about eligibility criteria and application processes.
These interactions create a rapport with representatives, which may positively influence the admissions process or future communications.
Furthermore, attendees can receive instant feedback on their qualifications, personal statements, or application strategies, helping them identify areas for improvement. Speaking directly with representatives can reveal unique programs, pathways, or opportunities not commonly advertised online or in brochures.
From all indications, Ma, the crux of the program is to facilitate schooling abroad. With the economic situation in Nigeria, how do prospective Nigerian scholars get funding?
The central goal of the program is to enable individuals interested in STEM careers to make informed decisions about their career paths and provide the necessary support to achieve their goals. This is why the fair will be attended by representatives from both national and international institutions and professionals.
While almost all exhibitors offer scholarships, there will also be a dedicated booth that provides information about scholarships and funding opportunities from various institutions, including International and Nigerian organisations, as well as government bodies.
Could you explain more on the available scholarship opportunities, vis-a-vis the terms and conditions?
The fair presents an invaluable opportunity to engage with a wide range of exhibitors, each representing distinct scholarship programs with their own unique eligibility criteria and application processes. Attendees can efficiently gather comprehensive information directly from the source and engage in meaningful conversations with scholarship representatives. These interactions may even include on-the-spot scholarship interviews, streamlining the application process.
Due to the diverse nature of scholarship deadlines and requirements, we strongly advise people to actively explore numerous options to identify those that best align with their academic achievements, extracurricular involvements, and career aspirations.
Remember, thorough research and proactive engagement are key to maximizing scholarship potential.
Considering the bottlenecks associated with Visa application and securing processes; how do prospective applicants get their visas and; are there ways you can assist?
Obtaining a visa can be challenging, but with the right guidance, support, and preparation, individuals can submit strong visa applications and achieve their goals. We recognize that this is a crucial concern for those aspiring to study or work abroad.
Therefore, we will host a workshop on visas to inform participants about the requirements, costs, necessary documents, and available support resources. Apart from the workshop, there will be a visa booth so people can ask personal questions. I believe that 10 attendees stand to win free visa processing service from the exhibition. Other details shall be made known subsequently.
What about their accommodation abroad?
People have various housing options available to them, which can depend on the institution, location, student preferences, and other factors. Attending the fair will allow individuals to clarify these important issues and determine the best option for their needs.
How do you get funding for all of these and what are your challenges?
– Hmmm should I be answering this question…
This fair, a joint initiative of Inside Edge Ltd and participating institutions, welcomes sponsorship from diverse organizations. Financial institutions, educational bodies, and FMCG manufacturers are all encouraged to contribute.
Their support will enable us to deliver a comprehensive and enriching experience for both students and professionals with an interest in STEM.
So, how can those wishing to register to participate, or sponsor the programme, get to you?
Thank you very much. You know, since we’re expecting participants or sponsors from any part of the world, we have our contact e-mail and telephone number for easy communication.
Our contact email is info@inside-edgeconsulting.com., and our contact telephone number is 09114932332
As your parting shot, are there any side attractions or special promos for the Tech Education Fair participants?
Absolutely! In addition to the workshops on crafting a strong personal statement or CV, and the dedicated desk for scholarship and visa information, we’re offering exciting incentives.
The first 20 attendees will receive gifts, and the first 10 to secure offers will receive free visa processing. We’ll also have a variety of corporate souvenirs and are actively seeking sponsors who will provide additional gifts for attendees.
It was nice speaking to you, Madam
It’s my pleasure. Thank you very much.
