By Chuks Eke
Authorities of TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited has explained the rationale behind its decision to build a multi-million naira modern classroom blocks at Model Nursery/Primary School, Igbo-Ukwu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The organization explained that apart from trying to fulfill it’s Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, it also targeted the provision of quality education in the state, as well as improved quality of teaching and learning at the grassroots levels
Managing Director of the organization, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer who disclosed this yesterday at Igboukwu in Aguata Local Government Area of the state while commissioning an ultra-modern classroom blocks built, furnished and equipped with modern facilities by TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited for the staff and pupils of Model Nursery and Primary Schools, located inside Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Igboukwu, noted that the measure was part of its social investment initiatives aimed at complementing governmentโs efforts at providing quality and sustainable education in the state.
Bouyer, whose address was delivered virtually at the school ground, explained that the company is dedicated to giving back to society and supporting the sustainable development of local communities, with the aim of giving our children in the communities access to modern educational resources and at the same time engaging learning environments.
“We firmly believe that improvement in the quality of teaching and learning will not only lead to several positive outcomes for beneficiaries of this facility but also for the larger society in the years to
come, said Bouyer, adding, this investment, whose location has been carefully chosen to make the most impact, is targeted at supporting the governmentโs efforts at reducing the number of out-of-school children in many parts of Nigeria today.”.
“Beyond the classroom experience,
this facility has been designed to aid the teaching and learning of subjects in an interactive way through the fully equipped essential elements of a standard educational facility.ย But laudable as it is, our contributions towards education development in Nigeria go beyond this. Not too long ago, we provided geoscience resources to six universities across the country,
including the University of Lagos, the Federal University of Technology, Akure, the University of Ilorin, the University of Ibadan, the University of Port Harcourt,
and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka”.
“At TotalEnergies, we understand and appreciate the value of education and its role in the development and growth of
any human society, and that is why we will continue to invest in infrastructure that boosts the quality of teaching and learning in all regions of our operations.”
He commended their partners and other stakeholders, including the state and local governments, the beneficiary community, and project managers for their support.
Earlier in his address, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, Oluwaseyi Omotowa had explained that the facility is a testament to its strategic partnership and commitment towards supporting education and community development.
“We believe that every child deserves access to quality education, and this classroom
block will provide a conducive learning environment for the pupils of Igbo-Ukwu. This classroom block represents a significant milestone in our efforts to improve educational infrastructure in the
communities.
“We are confident that it will
positively impact the learning outcomes and prospects of the pupils. I would like to express my gratitude to the community leaders, teachers, and pupils for their warm reception and enthusiasm,” Omotowa added.
The Headmistress, Model Nursery and Primary School, Igbo-Ukwu, Ifeoma Ezeokeke, commended the donors for the project, noting that the school was fortunate to be selected for the “lofty investment” aimed at boosting the quality of teaching and learning in the school.
Ezeokeke stated that the infrastructure would significantly improve the learning environment for the students, helping to prepare them for a brighter future.
The headmistress, teachers, pupils of the school and community leaders expressed their gratitude after the formal handover of the keys of the classrooms to the school managementi.
Dr. Chris Ekwedam, Project Manager, Carmels Tekno Ltd,
explained that the project situated on a single floor structure, has two offices that are equipped and furnished, six classrooms each with 20 chairs and tables (accommodating up to 40 students per classroom), white magnetic boards, desks, and chairs for teachers.
According to Ekwedam, the structure also includes separate male and female toilets, and wash areas designed for accessibility. Each section is intended to support the practical needs of both academic activities and health requirements. With functional overall layout that provides an environment suitable for students and staff.
“This project is an initiative by TotalEnergies and partners, including NNPC Limited, CNOOC, SAPETRO, and MEREN 234, aimed at improving the quality of
teaching and learning at the grassroots levels”.
