As part of efforts towards producing better enlightened and informed citizens, reduce poverty and promote equality amongst all; Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Government and Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), have renovated Community Secondary School, Iko Town, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.
The renovation efforts consist of the uplifting of 18 classrooms in four blocks, eight offices, a library block, new constructions of male and female toilet facilities, elevated walkways, rehabilitation of two boreholes and solar power installations to provide electricity.
This intervention was implemented as part of VCDF’s Model School Initiative Programme (MSI), an initiative created to demonstrate VCDF’s steadfast dedication towards enhancing educational systems in underserved communities by changing the educational landscape through an emphasis on technical skills, inclusive educational management and infrastructure support.
By highlighting education as a pillar for social development and sustainability, the initiative also demonstrates SEEPCO’s commitment and dedication to furthering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Ubong Essien Umoh, representing the State Government at the commissioning; applauded VCDF for its partnership and dedication to advancing education in rural communities.
He noted that the renovated facilities would enhance literacy levels and called on community leaders and the school management to safeguard the infrastructure against vandalism.
“I commend the foresight and commitment of all the partners involved in making public schools more attractive. This initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Umo Eno, under the broader Arise Agenda,” Umoh stated.
Also speaking, Executive Chairman, State Secondary Education Board, Dr. Ekaete Okon, praised the intervention and urged teachers to make the most of the upgraded facilities to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
“They have renovated and constructed new infrastructure for the school. I encourage the principal and staff to safeguard the facilities and put them to good use,” he said.
Principal, Dr. Ekerette Akpan, alongside teachers and students, also applauded the gesture, noting that the upgraded facilities would enhance their learning.
They however pleaded for more assistance in building a drainage system to deal with the flooding problem ailing the school. Student leaders, represented by the head boy and head girl, expressed their gratitude to VCDF, noting that the new classrooms has given the school with a much-needed facelift.
As one of Africa’s leading exploration and production companies, SEEPCO has continually shown a strong commitment to promoting sustainable education within rural communities through VCDF and other initiatives.
The collaboration at Community Secondary School, Iko, reflects VCDF’s conviction that quality education including infrastructural support, teaching learning materials and capacity building of teachers as well as an enabling conducive learning environment for students is an investment not only in young people but also for long-term sustainability and well-being of the society.
