As part of its steadfast commitment to upskilling educators and improving the quality of education, the NEPL/Seplat empowered 327 teachers and chief inspectors of education in its host communities in Delta and Edo State on Thursday.
Seplat Energy Director of Public Affairs and Social Performance Chioma Afe emphasized the significance of capacity building for educators and education leaders during her speech at the Seplat JV Education Summit and STEP Graduation Ceremony in Benin City, which had as its theme “Transforming the Education Workforce, A Critical Success Factor for Nation Building.”
She said: “We recognise that teachers are the cornerstone of a thriving education system. Through initiatives like STEP, we are equipping educators with the necessary tools, skills, and innovative teaching methodologies to foster a more engaging and impactful learning environment.”
“Our commitment to teacher empowerment extends beyond training; it is about creating a ripple effect that transforms classrooms. To date, the Seplat JV has trained 1,334 teachers across our host states, integrating STEAM education and technology-driven learning approaches that have directly impacted over 100,000 students annually.”
Stressing the importance of continuous development of teachers, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, represented by the Director of Basic and Secondary Education, of the ministry, Mrs. Agatha Ogefere, stated: “The theme of this year’s summit, ‘Transforming the Education Workforce,’ is timely and critical, adding that teachers are the foundation of any education system, and their continuous development is essential for national progress.”
“The STEP programme has demonstrated its impact by equipping educators with modern teaching techniques that align with global best practices. I commend Seplat JV for its visionary leadership in education reform and congratulate the latest cohort of trained teachers who are now better equipped to implement Nigeria’s evolving curriculum.”
Also speaking at the event, Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Iyamu, remarked, “This summit is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change in our education system. The strength of any education system is determined by the quality, capacity, and dedication of its workforce.
“Transforming the education workforce is a necessity. Today, as we recognize outstanding educators and institutions through this program, we reaffirm our belief that excellence in education is worth celebrating.”
“To all the teachers, your contributions are invaluable, and your dedication strengthens our collective resolve to build a brighter future through education.”
Also speaking, the Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, represented by the Deputy Director, Secondary Education in the ministry, Mrs. Justina Ishaka, expressed appreciation for Joint Venture contributions:
According to her, “This annual event underscores Seplat’s unwavering dedication to educational advancement. The Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) has played a pivotal role in reshaping the secondary education landscape in Edo and Delta States.
“It is remarkable to note that over 600 teachers in Delta State have benefited from STEP since its inception in 2020, including 171 teachers in this current cohort.
“The program has significantly bridged the knowledge gap in STEM education, leading to improvements in teaching quality and learning outcomes.”
Speaking on the tangible impact of the STEP initiative, Susan Bassey, a representative from the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), added that, “The success of the STEP program is evident in the testimonies of past participants who have not only enhanced their teaching skills but also leveraged their training in broader capacities.
“Our commitment to this initiative remains steadfast because we have seen firsthand the transformative impact it has on grassroots education. We are proud to sustain this partnership and further expand its reach.”
Professor Yinka Omorogbe (SAN), who delivered the keynote address, provided an in-depth analysis of the summit theme, underscoring the urgent need to rethink education workforce policies to drive national development.
“She highlighted that investing in teachers translates into long-term socioeconomic benefits, emphasising that a well-trained workforce ensures sustainability and progress in education.
The graduation of 15 chief inspectors of education and 327 teachers from the 2024 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Program (STEP) was a significant event highlight.
This accomplishment demonstrates NEPL/Seplat Energy’s steadfast dedication to improving the standard of education in Edo and Delta States and upskilling teachers.
The top ten teachers earned awards for their exceptional work, and special attention was given to the top three creative projects created throughout the program.
These projects provide excellent examples of how to put the knowledge and abilities acquired via STEP into practice, demonstrating its concrete influence on actual teaching approaches.
Lydia Aiganigbee, a teacher at Chinel Universe Academies in Edo State, reflected on her experience by sharing that “the STEP program has completely transformed my approach to teaching.”
“The methodologies and tools introduced have enabled me to create a more interactive and stimulating learning environment, significantly enhancing student engagement and performance.”
