A major turning point in NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture’s (JV) dedication to education has been reached with the commencement of the fifth edition of the groundbreaking Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP).
Since its founding, STEP has provided vital STEM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) skills to 1,373 people, including 1,264 secondary school teachers and 109 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) throughout Edo, Delta states, and host communities.
This program has not only improved the standard of instruction but also sparked innovation and creativity in the classroom. On August 22, 2024, in Benin, Edo State, the 2024 edition was formally launched. Attendees included 359 educators and 22 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) from various Edo, Delta States, and supporting towns.
The NEPL/Seplat JV’s steadfast dedication to improving education in its host states and communities is demonstrated by its ongoing investment.
The strategic objective underpinning STEP was emphasised by Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, in her talk: “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 as 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 will yield long-lasting benefits for the entire community.”
She underlined the program’s comprehensiveness once more, pointing out that participating teachers go through a demanding four-day session that covers leadership, STEAM, digital skills, and fundamental life skills: “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. This programme is an ongoing journey of professional growth and empowerment. We will return in six months for the graduation ceremony, where the teachers will share their success stories and be recognized for their achievements.”
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The state government’s sincere gratitude for the collaboration with the Seplat JV was sent by Joan Osa Oviawe, Commissioner of Education, Edo State, through Permanent Secretary Mr. Ojo Akin-Longe of the Edo State Public Service: “Initiatives like STEP are a testament to NEPL/Seplat Energy JV’s deep commitment to the communities in which they operate. By partnering with us to enhance the capacity of our teachers, NEPL/Seplat Energy JV is playing a crucial role in developing the potential 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.”
These views were mirrored by Mrs. Justina Ishaka, Deputy Director (Schools), Delta State Ministry of Secondary Education, on behalf of Commissioner Mrs. Rose Ezewu, who praised STEP as a driving force behind the educational transformation.
She had this to say: “STEP is more than just a training initiative; it represents a comprehensive approach to improving 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. We commend the NEPL/Seplat JV for their unwavering commitment to education and their partnership in this noble endeavour.”
At the event, Managing Director Nicolas Foucart of NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL) was represented by Uzoma Ezulu, Deputy Manager, Operations Management Seplat, NEPL.
Foucart stressed the importance of teaching in society: “The NEPL/Seplat JV STEP Programme is one of our key contributions to the communities we serve. We all recognize the indispensable role teachers play in shaping the future, and through STEP, we express our gratitude for their tireless efforts. We are committed to continuing our support for teachers and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.”
The 2024 STEP edition offers participants continuous leadership and self-improvement chances, BrandSpur’s top news headlines report.
It starts with an intense four-day residential session and continues with six months of online training. These educators are now better equipped to provide high-quality education that satisfies the expectations of a world that is changing quickly because they are armed with cutting-edge STEAM devices and applications.
Given that NEPL/Seplat JV is still investing in educational development through STEP, the program’s success emphasises how crucial it is to give teachers the tools they need to effect real change in their classrooms and communities. Without a doubt, this dedication to education will support the long-term economic growth of the states of Edo and Delta and, consequently, of Nigeria overall.
