By Daniel Abia, P/Harcourt

Rivers state Government has pledged to partner with multinational and nongovernmental organizations to improve the teaching and learning of science education in the state.

This was disclosed by the Chairman, Rivers state universal Basic Education Board, UBEB, Dr. Sam Ogeh during the closeout ceremony of Oando foundation school steam initiative in the state.

Ogeh who commended the foundation for its efforts towards assisting government in developing science education in Rivers state urged other corporate organizations to tow the path of the oil firm in developing the young minds scientifically.

“The future depends on raising children who are curious, confident and equipped to solve problems. That begins with how they learn at an early age. Through the steam project, the board is helping young learners build a strong foundation in science and mathematics by making learning practical, engaging and relevant”, Oge said.

Meanwhile Oando foundation has reiterated its commitment to support the Nigerian Government towards the realization of its universal Basic Education goals.

It said the Oando foundation school steam project has already recorded significant progress in Rivers state following the successful implementation of the pilot phase of the school steam project.

The foundation described the school steam project as an innovative educational intervention designed as a result to the growing need for stronger foundational science education and the development of critical competencies amongst young learners.

It would be recalled that the project was implemented across 30 public primary schools in Port Harcourt and Obio Akpor Local Government Areas with over 15,000 beneficiaries equipping learners with skills in problem solving, creativity collaboration and critical thinking through hands on experiential learning

According to the foundation “through a comprehensive approach designed to strengthen both teaching and learning outcomes, the initiative provided 300 educators with the knowledge tools and confidence to deliver engaging hands on steam instruction using the NERDC approved curriculum, while also establishing a fully equipped science innovative laboratory and distributing Steam kits across all participating schools to support experiential learning”.

It further said that beyond the classroom, the projects also connected pupils with steam professionals from Oando PLC through structured mentorship programme and curated excursions that exposed learners to real world application of Steam concept and potential pathways.

Speaking at the event in Port Harcourt, the Head, Oando Foundation, Tonia Uduimoh reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to scaling impactful education interventions that would bridge learning gaps and expand access to quality learning opportunities for children across Nigeria

“Expanding access to Education is only part of the solution. We must also ensure that every child experiences learning in ways that sparks curiosity, build confidence and develop practical skills”

Also speaking, Jadesola Adeddeji, Co -Founder and CEO, STEAM METS Resources, said, “the School STEAM project demonstrates what is possible when innovation, strong partnership and practical learning come together”.

She said beyond improving classroom instructions, the project has empowered teachers with the confidence and tools to deliver engaging STEAM education while equipping pupils with the critical thinking, creativity and problem solving skills they need to thrive

At the end of the competition, State Primary school, Rumueme emerged as the overall winner while state the primary school, Elekahia and State Primary school, Rumuokwurusi secured second and third place respectively

Also, outstanding Head teachers and Educators who played pivotal roles in advancing STEAM learning within their schools were recognized and presented with awards for their professional commitment and contributions to the successful implementation of the project.