FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Total of 359 teachers and 22 Chief Inspectors of Education, CIEs, from Edo and Delta States on Thursday benefited from the fifth edition of Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, STEP.
STEP, an initiative of NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture, JV, is aimed at equipping teachers and Chief Inspectors of Education in Edo and Delta States with essential skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, STEAM.
Addressing the participants, the Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, said since its inception, STEP has empowered 1,373 individuals, including 1,264 secondary school teachers and 109 CIEs across Edo, Delta States and host communities.
She noted that the initiative had not only enhanced the quality of education in the states, but also ignited creativity and innovation within classrooms.
Afe added that the continued investment by NEPL/Seplat JV underscored its unwavering commitment to elevate education in its host states and communities.
“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 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 yield long-lasting benefits for the entire community.
Afe, who emphasized the comprehensive nature of the programme, noted that “Participating teachers undergo a rigorous four-day workshop covering leadership, digital skills, STEAM and essential life skills.
According to her, “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.”
Speaking at the event, Edo State Commissioner for Education, Joan Oviawe, while appreciating Seplat JV for the partnership, said: “Initiatives like STEP are a testament to NEPL/Seplat Energy’s deep commitment to the communities in which they operate.”
The commissioner, who was represented by Mr Ojo Akin-Longe, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, added that: “NEPL/Seplat Energy JV is playing a crucial role in developing the potentials 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.”
Commissioner of Secondary Education, Delta State, Rose Ezewu represented by the Deputy Director (Schools), Delta State Ministry of Secondary Education, Mrs Justina Ishaka, echoed these sentiments, praising STEP as a catalyst for educational reform.
“STEP is more than just a training initiative; it represents a comprehensive approach to improve 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.”
Charity Okpue from Ethiope Mixed Secondary School, Sapele, Delta State, 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.”
