FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa has described the continuous development of teachers as the foundation of the education system and essential for national progress.
He stated this on Thursday in Benin at the graduation ceremony of Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, STEP’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics, STEAM, training programme.
Alausa, who was represented by the Director of Basic and Secondary Education, Agatha Ogefere said STEP programme has demonstrated its impact by equipping educators with modern teaching techniques that align with global best practices.
Earlier, Seplat’s Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Chioma Afe, disclosed that the programme is geared towards equipping teachers with skills to effectively deliver knowledge to students in STEAM
“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.
“Till date, 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.
“STEP empowers teachers in countless ways: through enhanced experiences, increased motivation, diverse learning opportunities, expanded networks and greater confidence which translate into better outcomes for students and a stronger education system”, she said.
Afe disclosed that 327 are classroom teachers, while 15 are Chief Inspectors of Education, CIE, from the host states.
On her part, a representative of NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, NEPL, Susan Bassey, noted that the success of the STEP programme is evident in the testimonies of past participants who have not only enhanced their teaching skills, but also leveraged their training in broader capacities.
In a keynote address, Professor Yinka Omorogbe (SAN) underscored the urgent need to rethink education workforce policies to drive national development.
According to her, investing in teachers translates into long-term socio-economic benefits, emphasizing that a well-trained workforce ensures sustainability and progress in education.
Commissioners of Education in Edo and Delta States, Dr Emmanuel Iyamu and Rose Ezewu, respectively, commended Seplat for their unwavering dedication to educational advancement in the two states.
A total of 342 teachers in Edo and Delta States graduated from a training programme organised by Seplat Energy, in collaboration NEPL.
