The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Seplat Energy Joint Venture have graduated 127 teachers and education evaluators from their first cohort of the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) in Imo State.
The ceremony, held in Owerri on Monday, marked the completion of training focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) teaching methods and alternative income-generating skills. The programme aims to strengthen professional capacity among primary and secondary school educators while boosting their economic resilience beyond teaching salaries.
Chioma Afe, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, represented by Esther Icha, General Manager of Corporate Social Investment, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to education and preparing teachers for a rapidly changing world. “Empowering teachers is central to improving learning outcomes and building a sustainable future for Nigerian children,” she noted.
Imo State Commissioner for Education (Primary and Secondary), Prof. Benard Ikegwuoha, praised the joint venture for its support. He said the training would improve classroom practice and urged beneficiaries to apply the skills to inspire students.
Joint best-graduating teachers Samuel Chijoke and Onuoha Success described the programme as transformative. They pledged to share the knowledge with colleagues and students to multiply its impact.
Also present was Dr Henry Okafor, Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence, who reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to partner with private organisations on educational development.
STEP forms part of Seplat Energy’s broader corporate social investment strategy, which prioritises education, health and community development in its operational areas. Similar teacher training programmes have been rolled out in other states. The successful graduation of the first Imo cohort is expected to pave the way for subsequent groups, further strengthening the state’s teaching workforce.
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