Seplat Donates Two More STEAM Labs in Benin

The NEPL/Seplat Energy JV has unveiled two more Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Labs at both the Edo Boys High School and New Era College, both in Benin City, Edo State. The STEAM Lab project is part of a comprehensive Seplat Innovators Programme (SIP), which complements the Seplat Teachers’ Empowerment Programme (STEP).

The programme is a follow-up on the progress of the trained teachers, to ensure that Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) learning is passed on to the students, towards improved quality of education.

In her opening remarks, the Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, who was represented by the Senior Manager, Corporate Social Investment and Performance, Esther Icha, stated that, “Our commitment to education is unwavering, and we are thrilled to collaborate with the Edo State Ministry of Education to provide quality education in the state. These STEAM Laboratories are designed to foster the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovative skills among the students, preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century.”

She further noted that the STEAM approach to learning is a holistic and interdisciplinary approach that encourages students to explore the connections between different subjects, igniting their curiosity and creativity. She also expressed optimism that the laboratories will serve as hubs of learning, where students can engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and projects that will enhance their understanding of the STEAM disciplines.

On her part, the commissioner for Education, Edo State, Joan Oviawe, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Ero Ugiagbe noted that, “Seplat Energy’s commitment to empowering the next generation is truly commendable. The three STEAM Labs you have built and equipped are testaments to your dedication to innovation and education. Your generosity will have a lasting impact on the lives of countless students, providing them with the platform to exploit, learn and bloom. Your contribution to the development of STEAM education in our community is invaluable. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Seplat for this remarkable feat. Your investment in our future is a beacon of hope and a reminder that collective effort can lead to remarkable achievement.”

It would be recalled that on April 14, 2023, the Seplat JV launched its first fully equipped STEAM Lab in Edo State. The Lab, complete with full internet subscription for a period of 12 months, was donated to Ihogbe College, Benin City, with a sustenance plan in place, to guarantee effectiveness and efficiency of the project.

Both the Principal of Edo Boys High School, Ebewele Christy and her counterpart at New Era College, Osaretin Uwaifo, appreciated Seplat Energy and the NNPCL for generously donating the State-of-the-art facilities to their respective schools. They equally expressed excitement and assured that the facilities will be put to maximum use and to achieve the purpose for which it has been provided.

The event attracted stakeholders in both the education and energy sectors, including the Acting Director, Social Mobilisation, State Secondary Education Board, Mabel Ojiefoh; Acting Director, School Support Management, State Secondary Education Board, Jennifer Aisuan; Acting Director, Shared Services Department, State Secondary Education Board, Ifueko Oseye; Managing Partner Teasoo Consulting Ltd, Sarah Ajose-Adeogu, while the NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL) was represented by Yemisi Lawal and Owunari Tomikeimieye.