From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPC) Foundation has initiated the distribution of 25,000 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEMS) books as part of efforts to promote science education in the country.
The campaign commenced on Monday with the official handover of 1,000 STEMS books to the School for the Gifted in Gwagwalada Local Government Area of the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of the NNPC Foundation, said the initiative will play a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education as well as lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Arukwu noted that the NNPC Foundation as part of its social responsibility, is advancing three transformative programs targeting improvements in healthcare, education, and agriculture throughout Nigeria.
According to her, “NNPC Foundation is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the NNPCL, and we are focused on education, health, the environment, and access to energy.
“This is part of our educational initiative. We believe so much in STEMS because it is vital for progress in all countries. It is one of the programmes that will be able to enhance technology, and Nigeria, as the foremost African country and developing nation, finds STEMS to be very critical.”
The MD further stated, “We need to make sure that we programme ourselves and the future through STEMS education. We see it as something that is critical for our technological future.
The books we are donating start from junior to senior secondary, and we believe it will engender the development of STEMS-related disciplines and advancement of Nigeria.”
The current phase of the initiative is expected to extend to 24 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Arukwe mentioned that last year, the NNPC Foundation distributed 50,000 STEMS books across Nigeria.
The Principal of the School for the Gifted, Bello Audu, expressed gratitude for the donation.
Audu also highlighted the school’s need for further resources, stating, “Your partnership with us is a shining example of the positive impact that can be achieved when organisations and communities come together to make a difference. We look forward to receiving such gestures from your good office. Thank you for your kindness and support. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and exploring ways to work together to enhance the educational experience of our students.”