The Seyi Makinde led administration has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening science education with the symbolic distribution of science equipment and materials to selected public secondary schools across local government areas of the state.
The event which was powered and facilitated by the Education Trust Fund (OYO ETF) Agency, attracted government officials, education stakeholders, and school administrators.
Flagging off the distribution, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, described the initiative as a strategic step toward raising educational standards in the state.
He explained that the intervention forms part of broader efforts by the Oyo State Education Trust Fund to mobilize resources for the provision of quality infrastructure, learning materials, and capacity-building programmes in public schools.
According to the Commissioner, the distribution of science equipment is aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical classroom teaching and practical laboratory experience.
He noted that strengthening laboratory facilities will nurture creativity, stimulate students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and better prepare them to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and technological advancement.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State Education Trust Fund, Barrister Rahman Abiodun Abu-Raheem, lauded Governor Seyi Makinde’s effort in repositioning the education sector while highlighting the agency’s achievements in supporting government efforts in the education sector.
He stated that the agency has recorded progress in classroom construction and renovation, provision of durable furniture, and distribution of customized exercise books to public schools across the state.
Quoting Helen Keller’s words, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” the Chairman stressed the importance of collaboration in building a stronger educational system.
He revealed that the Fund is planning further phased interventions, including expanded supply of science materials, renovation of vocational training facilities, and targeted training programmes for teachers and students.
Both officials urged school principals, teachers, and support staff to ensure proper use and maintenance of the equipment, while encouraging students to take their science education seriously as future scientists, engineers, and innovators.
He formally presented the materials to beneficiary schools and reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality education across Oyo State.
Representatives of the beneficiary schools expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government and the Oyo State Education Trust Fund for the timely intervention, describing the provision of science equipment as a major boost to effective teaching and learning.
They noted that many public schools have long faced challenges with inadequate laboratory facilities, which limited students’ exposure to practical experiments.
According to them, the newly distributed materials will significantly enhance laboratory sessions, improve students’ understanding of scientific concepts, and better prepare them for internal and external examinations.
Some of the students who attended the ceremony also welcomed the development with enthusiasm, pledging to make good use of the equipment to improve their academic performance. They said the gesture has motivated them to take greater interest in science subjects and pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The beneficiaries assured the government that the materials would be properly utilized and maintained to ensure long-term impact on teaching and learning in their schools.
