A non-governmental organisation established to support the Nigerian government in achieving universal basic education goals, Oando Foundation, has completed the pilot phase of its school’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) project across 30 public primary schools in Rivers State, with 300 educators trained and more than 15,000 pupils reached.

The intervention was implemented in Port Harcourt and Obio-Akpor Local Government areas.

It was designed in response to what the foundation described as a growing need for stronger foundational science education and the development of critical competencies among young learners at the basic education level.

The school STEAM project adopted a comprehensive approach targeting both teaching and learning outcomes.

A total of 300 educators in the 30 participating schools were provided with training, teaching tools, and instructional support to deliver hands-on STEAM lessons using the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) approved curriculum.

The objective, organisers said, was to equip teachers with the knowledge and confidence to move beyond theoretical instruction to experiential, activity-based learning.

As part of the infrastructure component, the Foundation established a fully- equipped science innovation laboratory and distributed STEAM kits to all participating schools.

The kits and lab were intended to support practical learning and allow pupils to engage directly with scientific concepts.

Beyond classroom instruction, the project introduced pupils to professionals working in STEAM fields through a structured mentorship programme with staff of Oando Plc.

Pupils also participated in curated excursions aimed at exposing them to real-world applications of STEAM concepts and possible career pathways in science and technology.

A central element of the initiative was the Design Thinking Programme. Under this component, pupils were guided to identify challenges within their schools and communities, and to work collaboratively to develop practical and innovative solutions to those problems.

The pilot, which was launched in 2025, was implemented in partnership with the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB), STEM METS Resources, and Oando.

It forms part of Oando Foundation’s LEARNOVATE strategy, which focuses on improving foundational learning through innovative approaches and promoting sustainability within educational systems.

Speaking at the close-out ceremony, Head of Oando Foundation, Tonia Uduimoh, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to scaling education interventions that address learning gaps.

“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.

Also speaking, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of STEM METS Resources, Jadesola Adedeji, said the initiative demonstrated the impact of combining innovation, partnerships and practical learning.

“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,” Adedeji said.

The Chairman of RSUBEB, Samuel Ogeh, emphasised the need to strengthen foundational STEAM education in public schools.

He noted that the future depends on raising children who are curious, confident, and equipped to solve problems, adding that when children develop critical thinking and curiosity from the start, they are better prepared to seize future opportunities and contribute meaningfully to society.

The ceremony concluded with the School STEAM Project Pitch Competition, where participating schools presented innovative solutions developed from challenges identified in their schools and communities.

State Primary School, Rumueme, emerged as the overall winner of the competition, while State Primary School, Elekaiah, and State Primary School, Rumuokwurusi, emerged first and second runners-up respectively.