By Kehinde Ibrahim, Lagos
OANDO Foundation has recorded significant progress in advancing foundational learning in Rivers State following the successful completion of the pilot project, an initiative designed to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education in public primary schools.
The project, implemented across 30 public primary schools in Port Harcourt and Obio-Akpor Local Government Areas, impacted more than 15,000 beneficiaries by introducing innovative and hands-on learning methods that foster problem-solving, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking among pupils.
The initiative was developed in response to the increasing need to improve foundational science education and equip young learners with the practical and analytical skills required to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world. By integrating experiential learning into classroom instruction, the programme seeks to make science and mathematics more engaging while improving learning outcomes.
Speaking at the project’s close-out ceremony, Head of Oando Foundation, Tonia Uduimoh reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to expanding access to quality education and scaling interventions that address learning gaps across Nigeria.
According to her, improving access to education must be accompanied by efforts to transform how children learn, ensuring they acquire practical skills alongside academic knowledge.
“Expanding access to education is only part of the solution; we must also ensure that every child experiences learning in ways that spark curiosity, build confidence and develop practical skills. That is the thinking behind the School STEAM Project. By making science and mathematics more engaging through hands-on learning, we are equipping young learners with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world,” she said.
The Foundation noted that the programme not only enhanced pupils’ learning experiences but also strengthened teachers’ capacity to deliver interactive and learner-centred STEAM education, thereby promoting long-term improvements in classroom instruction.
Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of STEM METS Resources, Jadesola Adedeji described the project as evidence of the transformative impact that can be achieved through strategic partnerships and innovative teaching approaches.
She said the initiative has empowered teachers with the confidence, knowledge and instructional tools needed to deliver effective STEAM education while equipping pupils with essential skills for the future.
“The School STEAM Project demonstrates what is possible when innovation, strong partnerships and practical learning come together. Beyond improving classroom instruction, 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. We are proud to partner with Oando Foundation and the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board on an initiative that is creating sustainable impact and inspiring the next generation of innovators,” Adedeji said.
Chairman of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board, RSUBEB, Samuel Ogeh, underscored the importance of strengthening foundational STEAM education within the public school system, stressing that nurturing curiosity and critical thinking from an early age is essential to preparing children for future opportunities.
He said the project has introduced a more practical and engaging approach to science and mathematics education, enabling pupils to develop the confidence and analytical skills required to solve real-world challenges.
“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 School STEAM Project, we are helping young learners build a strong foundation in science and mathematics by making learning practical, engaging and relevant. When children develop critical thinking and curiosity from the start, they are better prepared to seize future opportunities and contribute meaningfully to society,” Ogeh stated.
Launched in 2025, the School STEAM Project is implemented by Oando Foundation in collaboration with RSUBEB, STEM METS Resources and Oando PLC. The initiative forms part of the Foundation’s LEARNOVATE strategy, which focuses on improving foundational learning through innovative education models while promoting sustainability within Nigeria’s education system.
With the successful completion of the pilot phase, the Foundation said the project has demonstrated the potential of experiential learning to improve classroom engagement, enhance teaching quality and equip young learners with competencies that will support their academic development and future careers.
