From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP), has equipped 1,373 individuals, including 1,264 secondary school teachers and 109 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) across Edo, Delta states and host communities, with essential skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), thereby enhancing the quality of education and igniting creativity and innovation within classrooms since its inception.
The figures were released yesterday during this year’s flag off of the 5th edition of NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) programme in Benin, Edo State, in which 359 teachers and 22 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) from across Edo, Delta States and supporting communities participated.
Speaking at the event, the Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, highlighted the strategic vision behind STEP, saying, “Five years ago, we conducted a thorough assessment of our host communities in Edo and Delta states to identify their most pressing needs. Education emerged as the top priority, not only for the children but also for the teachers who are instrumental in shaping the future of the students.
“Through STEP, we are creating a comprehensive educational ecosystem-impacting teachers, students, school infrastructure, and even the Ministries of Education. This approach ensures that our investment in education will yield long-lasting benefits for the entire community.”
Emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the programme, Afe disclosed that participating teachers undergo a rigorous four-day workshop covering leadership, digital skills, STEAM, and essential life skills.
“We have provided each teacher with a tablet equipped with the STEP app, granting them access to a wealth of teacher-focused resources from Microsoft, as well as ongoing support from facilitators. This programme is an ongoing journey of professional growth and empowerment. We will return in six months for the graduation ceremony, where the teachers will share their success stories and be recognized for their achievements,” she added.
The Commissioner, Ministry of Education, Edo State, Joan Osa Oviawe, represented by a Permanent Secretary in the Edo State Public Service, Mr Ojo Akin-Longe, expressed the state government’s deep appreciation for the partnership with the Seplat JV, stating, “Initiatives like STEP are a testament to NEPL/Seplat Energy JV’s deep commitment to the communities in which they operate.
“By partnering with us to enhance the capacity of our teachers, NEPL/Seplat Energy JV is playing a crucial role in developing the potential of our children and, by extension, the future of Edo State. We are grateful for their continued support and pledge our full cooperation to ensure the success of this programme.”
On her part, the Commissioner, Ministry of Secondary Education, Delta State, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, represented by Deputy Director (Schools), Delta State Ministry of Secondary Education, Mrs Justina Ishaka, praised STEP as a catalyst for educational reform.
“STEP is more than just a training initiative; it represents a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of education in Delta State. Over 500 teachers in our state have already benefited from this programme, and its positive impact will continue to ripple through our communities for years to come. We commend the NEPL/Seplat JV for their unwavering commitment to education and their partnership in this noble endeavour”, she said.
Representing NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) at the event, Managing Director Nicolas Foucart represented by Deputy Manager, Operations Management Seplat, NEPL, Uzoma Ezulu, emphasized the vital role of teachers in society, saying “The NEPL/Seplat JV STEP Programme is one of our key contributions to the communities we serve. We all recognize the indispensable role teachers play in shaping the future, and through STEP, we express our gratitude for their tireless efforts. We are committed to continuing our support for teachers and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.”
One of the participating teachers, Oloye Funmilayo from Itohan Girls Grammar School, Benin City, praised the programme, saying “The STEP programme has significantly boosted my self-awareness and confidence as an educator. I now feel empowered to inspire my students to achieve greatness, knowing that I am equipped with the tools to make a difference in their lives.”
Similarly, Charity Okpue from Ethiope Mixed Secondary School, Sapele, Delta said “Since joining the STEP programme, I have gained invaluable insights into emotional intelligence and effective classroom management. This training has exceeded my expectations and has provided me with the skills to better handle challenging situations and foster a positive learning environment for my students.”
The 2024 STEP edition began with an intensive four-day residential workshop and will be followed by six months of online training, providing participants with ongoing leadership and self-improvement opportunities. Equipped with state-of-the-art STEAM gadgets and apps, these educators are now better prepared to deliver high-quality education that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving world.
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