With the aim of strengthening STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education in Nigeria, IHS Nigeria, in collaboration with Limitless Space Institute (LSI), trained 10 teachers in space exploration.
This initiative aims to provide educators with the knowledge and tools they need to inspire the next generation of space scientists and engineers.
The program focused on both theoretical and practical aspects of space exploration and covered topics such as satellite technology, planetary science, and space missions.
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The Global Educators Program is a year-long sponsored training in STEM and space education for secondary school teachers held in the United States and some locations in Nigeria.
The 10 selected beneficiaries from different regions across Nigeria were hosted at a roundtable event in Lagos organized by IHS Nigeria and LSI.
Speaking on behalf of IHS Nigeria, Chief Executive Officer, Mohammad Darwish, commended the teachers for their commitment to promoting STEM education. He pledged IHS Nigeria’s continued support in efforts to train more teachers and students in STEM and space science education.
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Additionally, Mr. Dapo Otunla, Chief Corporate Services Officer, IHS Nigeria, expressed pride in the success of the programme.
“For us, education and economic growth are key pillars of our sustainability program, putting the heart at the foundation of all progress,” he said. “IHS is primarily an engineering company, so we have been deeply involved in education activities, particularly in STEM fields. Our partnership with LSI is perfectly aligned with our Mission T program to advance STEM education. ”
Otunla noted that IHS Nigeria, which started operations in 2001, has invested in innovation centers such as Alimosho in Lagos State and Ogbomosho in Oyo State with the aim of promoting education and skill development across Nigeria. .
At the same event, LSI Executive Director Kasi Heinz said over 200 teachers from public schools across Nigeria had applied for the program, while another group of 10 teachers from Brazil for the one-year training It was revealed that only 10 people were selected for the group. .
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“By connecting STEM education with the fascinating subject of space, we aim to inspire both educators and students while simultaneously enhancing the STEM learning experience,” Heinz explained.
“These teachers are expected to pass on the knowledge they have gained back to their students and foster a new generation interested in STEM education.”
The 10 beneficiaries who shared their experiences during the event expressed their deep gratitude for the opportunity provided by IHS Nigeria and LSI.
Maranatha Har, a chemistry teacher at the Federal Government College, Jos State, said: “This program exposed me to the fascinating possibilities of space science and emphasized the importance of international collaboration. I am excited to share what I have learned with my students and fellow teachers. .”
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Olayinka Adeosun of Ilupeju Junior Grammar School, Lagos said: “This training exposed me to aspects of space science that I never could have imagined. My students are now more motivated than ever to pursue space technology education. We even established a virtual knowledge exchange with the Space Institute in Houston.”
Other teachers include Blessing Akila of ECWA Secondary School, Makurdi; Oluwabanke Adewusi from Itire Community High School, Lagos. Joshua James of Greenpath Preparatory School, Abuja. Soji Megbowon, from Ifesowapo Abolu High School, Lagos. Mr. Ngobili Abraham, a graduate of the Federal Government University, Enugu State; Wahab Abubakar from Sango High School, Ilorin. Kayode Adewale from Odua Comprehensive High School, Ijebu Ode; Rashidat Ademosu of Eva Adelaja Girls Secondary School, Lagos.