The Delta government has assured that it will continue to partner private organisations in the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the state.
Mrs Rose Ezewu, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in the state gave the assurance on Thursday at the “Nnoli Akpedeye Girls in STEAM Scholarship (NAGISS) Science Workshop and Competition” in Warri.
The event was organised by the Compos Mentis Foundation in partnership with the NiSafetyE.
The theme of the event was: STEAM Power: Unleashing the Genius of Future Innovators.
In her keynote address, Ezewu said that the state
government was deeply committed to the development of STEM education at all levels in the state.
She expressed gratitude to the Compos Mentis Foundation for the initiative and called on corporate organisations and stakeholders to invest more in STEM education, particularly for the girls.
According to her, NAGISS is not only an investment in education but also a catalyst for the transformation of the society.
“We will continue to partner organisations like Compos Mentis Foundation to ensure young girls have access to the tools. resources and mentorship needed to excel in STEM.
“I commend the Compos Mentis Foundation for their dedication to this cause.
“Education is the foundation upon which nations are built, this is why initiatives like NAGISS are invaluable, not only providing scholarships but also guidance, motivation, and real-life role models for young girls.
“I am particularly pleased to learn that the first beneficiaries of NAGISS have already gained admission to study engineering at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE).
“I encourage every young girl here today to see this programme as an opportunity to believe in yourself and never let fear or doubt limit your potential.
“You are capable and brilliant. You are the future, so let this competition be a stepping stone to greater achievements,” she advised.
The commissioner, however, urged the parents and teachers to continue to support and nurture the confidence of the girls to enable them to break evens.
Earlier in her remark, Mrs Nnoli Akpedeye, the initiator of the programme said that the project commenced in 2023 with five secondary schools in participation.
Akpedeye said that the initiative was way of encouraging sciences among girls adding that two of the beneficiaries in the maiden edition had gained admission to study engineering courses at FUPRE.
According to her, engineering is a good career for the female.
“This is the second edition of the programme. It is a honour for me to be able to serve. However, I would not have be the person I am today without the support of so many people.
“So, select the people you engaged and relate with carefully. Ensure that they are people who will support and encourage you to be the best you can be and help you achieve your potential in life,” she advised.
The Lead Presenter, Dr Elizabeth Eterigho said that STEAM was not just about creating jobs but fixing problems.
Eterigho urged the girls to be curious, bold and determined, noting that they would definitely face challenges at one point and the other.
“Do not be afraid, we need more women in science and technology, we need thinkers, dreamers and problem solvers.
“Your potentials are limitless and the world is waiting for your ideas, solutions and leadership, be determined,” she urged the girls.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that nine secondary schools in Warri and environs participated in the scholarship exercise.
The scholarship awardees were: Ms Akpojivi Favour, (Okpaka Secondary School), Akpede Favour, (Ebrumede Secondary School), Uwakwe Ogechi, (Alegbo Secondary School).
Others were: Ms Seleoba Jennifer, (Ugbolokposo Secondary School) and Ogane Joy, (Unity School, Agbarho).