Page 75 - NEW ENERGIES Beyond Data

Eyong Eyong Utam

Computer Instructor

Abaribara, Cross River State

I live in Abaribara, Biase Local Government, in Cross River State.

Life in this community is tough, we lack good roads and electricity. Access to education is also quite challenging
as children have to travel to nearby villages for schooling. Having lived outside the village myself, I felt it was
my responsibility to lead and advise on activities that could improve our community. I have always aimed to
uplift the youth, showing them how to interact with the outside world. I now teach people about computers,
and many are coming to browse. Previously, our students did not know how to use computers, but now they
can type and identify computer parts.

Before, there was only one computer in the community, and I struggled with fuel and generator issues. The
lack of electricity meant few customers and my business struggled. I wasn’t here when solar first arrived, but

I moved back when a mini grid was installed in the community.

With the arrival of stable power, interest in learning has increased. Now, people from other communities
come to use the café, and I also go out to advertise, attracting customers from nearby villages. Many
who previously travelled for computer lessons now come to our centre. We have also established a small
secondary school within our community, allowing our children to learn locally. Job opportunities have also
improved, with our youth becoming educated and finding employment. I tell everyone they are welcome to

learn computers, regardless of age.

Life has improved greatly for us all.

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