Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has launched energy clubs in selected schools within its district, to encourage young girls to take opportunities in the power sector. 

The club activities are expected to promote the interest of female students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines, to achieve gender diversity and equity in the power sector and other related technical areas.
   
The programme launch, which was held at Government Secondary School, Ikoyi, is in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). 
   
The participating schools in the first phase of the year-long programme include Akande Dahunsi Community Secondary School, Ilado Community Junior Secondary School and Wahab Folawiyo Junior High School.
   
According to Alero Olayiwola, EKEDC’s Head Talent Management and development, the club activities will run concurrently in the participating schools, for a period of 12 months.

During the period, EKEDC will provide guidelines, curriculum and support activities of the club before handing over to participating schools for sustainability. 
   
She disclosed that the programme would sustain the interest and commitment of students in STEM subjects and expose them to  knowledge, possibilities and opportunities that abound in the power and other technical sectors.
 
In his remarks, Aik Alenkhe, EKEDC’s Chief Human Resource Officer, said the energy club which is also part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) is geared towards actualising the company’s mission, vision and core values. 

“It is our hope that this commitment to the future of students, particularly  girls, will help bring about a gender inclusive sector without limitation or barrier to women. It is also our hope to correct the age-long stereotype that has been associated with the power sector, as a male dominated sector. For us as a company, we believe that there should be no encumbrance to  opportunities that are opened to females in the  sector.”
   
Vice Principal,  Akande Dahunsi Community Junior Secondary School, Alexander Nzekwe, said the initiative would encourage students to be STEM focused and open them to opportunities in the power sector.