SEPLAT supports education with STEP initiative in two states

As part of efforts to enhance quality education in Nigeria, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (SEPLAT) has stepped-up SEPLAT Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) initiative to upskill more teachers in the country.

The initiative by the energy company has continued to make notable strides with its drive to improve the standard of education in the country, particularly for its host States.

The educational programme tagged STEP is focused on promoting Teacher’s creative thinking, allow for higher student engagement, and offer a well-rounded education for recipients of the programme.

The maiden Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) made its debut in Benin City, Edo State, on November 23, 2020, and lasted five days for the first phase.

The five-day residential Workshop introductory phase kicks off a six-month programme specially designed for Teachers providing them training on teaching applications for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) as well as leadership and self-improvement training.

The training continues online over six months with Teachers receiving customized training modules on efficient pedagogical methods for STEAM education, as well as leadership and self-improvement training.

Seplat developed an Online Teachers Resource Centre which provides the Teachers access to inclusive learnings highlighting best techniques and practices for implementing STEAM teaching methods and assists Teachers to learn to use such methods in the classrooms.

The E-Platform will provide and connect Teachers to a collection of STEAM resources to enable them to understand, teach and demonstrate effectively to their students. Seplat supports Teachers with the provision of electronic devices and internet data for the period of training.

The General Manager, External Affairs and Communications, SEPLAT, Dr Chioma Nwachuku, said a total of one hundred (100) Teachers and 43 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) drawn from Edo and Delta States are benefitting from this maiden edition.

“Seplat is delighted with the invaluable role the Company is playing with enhancing the quality of education with the many educational programmes offered through the Company’s CSR initiatives. With the STEP programme, the company now has a full boutique of programmes to address the entire education value chain. Our programmes now cover improving school infrastructure, enhancing the academic performance of students and building the skills and competencies of Teachers.’’

The Company recently concluded another flagship educational programme, Seplat PEARLs Quiz, which had 574 participating schools drawn from Edo and Delta States. The competition aims to promote and reward academic excellence amongst Secondary School students; it runs for six months with the students and Schools earnestly contest to win the much-coveted prizes.

The Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT, Roger Brown, said, “Seplat has invested significantly in various educational Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes which support Sustainable Development Goals, Goal 4, because of our strong belief that education is the bedrock for national growth. Worldwide, having a team of competent teachers is a critical success factor for achieving quality education.

“Our STEP programme, therefore, aims to enhance Teachers’ competencies and empower them with the knowledge and skills to deploy STEAM education, amongst other benefits. STEAM education is crucial in creating a strong educational foundation for students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics”. Seplat is committed to providing this programme annually because of its relevance, he affirmed.