MTN Foundation Inaugurates Queen’s College Science Laboratories

Funmi  Ogundare

MTN Foundation has inaugurated the science laboratories of Queens College, Lagos.

The inauguration of the science laboratories in Yaba by the mobile network provider is aimed at enhancing the teaching standard and knowledge of students in the field.

The project entailed a total remodeling of the entire science block, fixing the leaking roof, painting and provision of new sets of laboratory tables and basic facilities, as well as an inverter for power supply.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the foundation, Prince Julius Adelusi- Adeluyi, explained that the college was selected as a beneficiary in recognition of the fulfilment of the criteria such as being a legacy school owned by the government, having an active Parent Teachers Association (PTA), presence of science teachers, alumni association, as well as the value the college is able to add to members of its community.

The foundation, he noted, has evolved in three significant areas; health, education and economic empowerment, adding that so far it had spent more than N20 billion on its initiatives. 

He acknowledged the contribution of the alumni of the alumni, PTA and students, while expressing optimism that the project will be sustained.

The President of Queen’s College Old Girls Association (QCOGA) and a member of the board of MTN,  Dr. Ifueko Omoigui- Okauru, expressed excitement that the organisation  is supporting education, and making impact on the lives of the girl-child, adding that the project is a huge legacy.

She expressed optimism that the project will be sustained, noting that when a laboratory and conducive environment  are put in place for students, they will do well and  would encourage girls to want to go into the field of science.

“I remain responsible to ensure that the laboratories are sustained. The impact on students will be wonderful because a conducive environment affects their minds and what they do. Some of them will be encouraged to want to go into the sciences.”

She stated that the college will leverage on renewable energy to ensure a regular supply of power in the school so as to build a safe environment for girls.

While commending the teachers for their role in impacting knowledge on the students, Omogui-Okaru stated that it is the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in the school to ensure that the project is maintained and sustained over time.

“It is our job to sustain it but it is our collective responsibility to ensure that we maintain the lab over time,” she said.

The Director, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Zubairu Ibrahim, commended the foundation for the initiative, saying that all stakeholders should take a cue from it to support other schools.

“Government alone cannot do it as the demands on education are very high. It is the old students that could bring a change to the sector,” he stated.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Mrs. Olufolake Kasumu, said the project will provide a platform to science enthusiasts, adding that the current reality is on technology.