ExxonMobil foundation, JA Nigeria equip young Nigerians with STEM skills

The ExxonMobil Foundation, in partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria (JA Nigeria), has reaffirmed its commitment to equip young Nigerians with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills.

The programme brought together students from secondary schools across the country, to prepare them with the technical knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

The acting Executive Director of Junior Achievers, Mr. Olaolu Akogun, during an interview at the event, explained that 120 students from 10 secondary schools participated and had emerged winners of the quiz competitions held across their respective area councils.

“The students have been introduced to the concept of design thinking through practical exercises, including reimagining everyday products such as a refrigerator.

“Through these engagements, the students have been inspired by the personal and career stories of the ExxonMobil professionals, giving them a better understanding of how to navigate their own career aspirations as they transition from school into the world of work.

“Our partnership with the ExxonMobil Foundation is one of the key ways we reach and empower young people.

“We are particularly pleased that this is the third consecutive year of the partnership, and we look forward to continuing it in the years ahead while expanding its impact,” he said.

Also, the Executive Director of JA Nigeria, Mrs. Simi Nwogugu, said the initiative was aimed at inspiring young people and equipping them with the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the global economy.

According to her, the programme exposed the students to practical design-thinking exercises, including activities that challenged them to rethink and redesign everyday products such as refrigerators.

She said the participants also interacted with professionals from various fields within the ExxonMobil team, who shared their career experiences and offered mentorship.

“The students have been exposed to the concept of design thinking and have also interacted with experts from different professional backgrounds,” she said.

Also, the STEM coordinator and physics teacher at the School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada, Mr. Shodeinde Babafemi Samuel, said the school’s participation in the initiative has significantly improved students’ academic performance and confidence.

He described the boot camp as a lifetime opportunity that exposes students to practical STEM learning beyond the classroom.

Shodeinde attributed the programme’s impact to the outstanding performances recorded by former participants, revealing that some students scored as high as 368 and 339 in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations.

He said the achievements were a direct result of the intensive coaching and practical training provided through the partnership between Junior Achievement Nigeria and the ExxonMobil Foundation, adding that the initiative continues to inspire excellence among young learners.