Delta Govt Pledges Robust Partnership With Private Organisations on STEM Education

Oghenruona Tejiri, Warri

Delta State Government will continue to partner private organisations in the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the state.

This assurance was given by Mrs. Rose Ezewu, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education at the Nnoli Akpedeye Girls in STEAM Scholarship (NAGISS) Science Workshop and Competition in Warri.

The event was organised by the Compos Mentis Foundation in partnership with the NiSafetyE with a theme “STEAM Power: Unleashing the Genius of Future Innovators.”

In her keynote address, Mrs. Ezewu said that the Delta State Government
was deeply committed to the development of STEM education at all levels in the state.

She expressed gratitude to the Compos Mentis Foundation for the initiative and called on corporate organisations and stakeholders to invest more in STEM education, particularly for the girls.

According to her, NAGISS is not only an investment in education but also a catalyst for the transformation of the society.

According to Mrs. Ezewu, “we will continue to partner organisations like Compos Mentis Foundation to ensure young girls have access to the tools, resources and mentorship needed to excel in STEM.

“I commend Compos Mentis Foundation for their dedication to this cause. Education is the foundation upon which nations are built, this is why initiatives like NAGISS are invaluable, not only providing scholarships but also guidance, motivation and real-life role models for young girls.

“I am particularly pleased to learn that the first beneficiaries of NAGISS have already gained admission to study engineering at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE).

“I encourage every young girl here today to see this programme as an opportunity to believe in yourself and never let fear or doubt limit your potential.

“You are capable and brilliant. You are the future, so let this competition be a stepping stone to greater achievements.”

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education however, called parents and teachers to continue to support and nurture the confidence of the girls to enable them to break even.

Earlier in her remark, Mrs. Nnoli Akpedeye, the initiator of the programme said that the project commenced in 2023 with five secondary schools participating.

Mrs. Akpedeye, an Engineer said that the initiative was a way of encouraging sciences among girls adding that two of the beneficiaries in the maiden edition had gained admission to study engineering courses at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE).

According to her, “engineering is a good career for females. This is the second edition of the programme. It is an honour for me to be able to serve. However, I would not have been the person I am today without the support of so many people.

“So, select the people you engage and relate with carefully. Ensure that they are people who will support and encourage you to be the best you can be and help you achieve your potentials in life.”

The Lead Presenter, Dr. Elizabeth Eterigho said that STEAM was not just about creating jobs but fixing problems.

Dr. Eterigho urged the girls to be curious, bold and determined, noting that they would definitely face challenges at one point or the other.

“Do not be afraid, we need more women in science and technology, we need thinkers, dreamers and problem solvers.

“Your potentials are limitless and the world is waiting for your ideas, solutions and leadership, be determined.”

Nine secondary schools in Warri and environs participated in the scholarship exercise.

The schools were: Alegbo Secondary School, Alegbo, Effurun, Ebrumede Secondary School, Ebrumede, Uvwie L. G. A , Okpaka Secondary School, Okpaka, Udu L. G. A, Unity School, Agbarho, Ughelli North L. G. A.College of Commerce, Warri.

Others were, Ekete Grammar School, Udu L. G. A, Essi College, Warri; Emadadja Grammar School, Udu L .G. A and Ugbolokposo Secondary School, Uvwie L. G. A

The scholarship awardees were: Miss Akpojivi Favour, (Okpaka Secondary School), Akpede Favour, (Ebrumede Secondary School), Uwakwe Ogechi, (Alegbo Secondary School).

Others were: Miss Seleoba Jennifer, (Ugbolokposo Secondary School) and Ogane Joy, (Unity School, Agbarho).