Akwa Ibom’s cultural heritage and creative talent can become major sources of jobs, entrepreneurship and income if properly connected to digital technology, speakers at the Usoro Akwa Ibom Digital Economy Masterclass 2026 have said.
The call formed the central focus of the opening day of the masterclass held at Ibom LED, Uyo, where participants examined how indigenous culture, language, storytelling and artistic expression could be converted from cultural assets into commercially viable digital products.
With the theme, “Culture, Creativity & The Digital Opportunity,” the programme brought together educators, creative practitioners, innovators and other stakeholders to examine the economic possibilities emerging from the digital transformation of the creative sector.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Akwa Ibom State, Dr Anietie Udofia, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of positioning the state’s cultural resources within the expanding creative and digital economy.
Project Lead, Felix Uyah, said the masterclass was designed to expose participants to practical opportunities for converting knowledge, creativity and cultural identity into sustainable ventures capable of generating economic value.
A major focus of the discussions was the need to ensure that young people do not remain mere consumers of digital content but develop the skills to create, market and monetise products rooted in their environment and cultural identity.
Speaking on knowledge and community impact, Alexander Inyang, Acting Head of Department, Early Childhood Care and Education, Federal College of Education, Ididep, and CEO of AD Management Entertainment Consultancy, examined ways everyday knowledge could be developed into initiatives with measurable community and economic benefits.
The economic potential of indigenous language was also explored, with Dr Uduak Savior, Acting Head of Department, Ibibio, Federal College of Education, Ididep, stressing the relevance of language and identity in developing culturally authentic digital content and platforms.
The creative industry’s commercial side came under scrutiny as Thomas Etuk, Acting Head of Department, Theatre Arts, Federal College of Education, Ididep, examined how theatre, storytelling and other forms of artistic expression can move beyond entertainment into structured economic activity.
The first day also featured interactive sessions, question-and-answer engagements and a networking session coordinated by Project Coordinator, Kingsley Umoffia. Emem Udominyang delivered the closing remarks.
The masterclass is expected to continue its focus on equipping participants with perspectives and practical knowledge that can help position Akwa Ibom’s cultural resources within the wider digital economy, with emphasis on entrepreneurship, market access and sustainable income generation.
