BIC Adopts Holistic Approach to Improve Learning Conditions for 250m

BIC has adopted a holistic approach to education in Africa to equip students with the necessary tools and knowledge from primary school all the way to university.

In a statement, it was noted that the strategy stems from the company’s global education commitment to improve learning conditions for 250M students by 2025, as part of its sustainable development programme, ‘Writing the Future Together.’

The statement stated that based on its strategy, BIC works with local schools in the communities in which it operates to fill classrooms with the necessary writing and self-expression tools, adding that the company works with local partners to refurbish school facilities to enhance students’ learning environments directly impacting students and teachers alike.

The statement noted that to take education beyond the classroom, BIC runs initiatives for youth to unleash their creativity and bring their education to life.

The statement further explained that The Art Master Africa competition launched in 2017, encourages youth to express themselves through art, under Africa-based themes, while noting that winners are supported by BIC financially, as well as through exposure and collaboration opportunities.

The statement averred that BIC supports organizations to further inspire and motivate people with determination to express themselves – tapping into the wider education space.

The statement further explained to continue to support them on their journey, BIC works with youth empowerment organizations such as Enactus, to support local SMEs underpinned by ideas that serve the wider community and related to BIC’s strategic areas of focus; education and sustainability, “BIC provides Nigerian youth with internship opportunities to help prepare them for life after university.”

The statement stated that to support teachers in their ongoing journey of training and upskilling, BIC has partnered with renowned educators in Nigeria to extend its support of education to the beacons of the industry.

The statement recalled that earlier this year, BIC has joined forces and resources with the ‘Phenomenon-Edu Impact’ and ‘1-Million Teachers’ to provide educators with the essential knowledge required to nurture individuals who can contribute effectively to the global economy.

The statement espoused that as a result of the partnership, BIC directly influenced 260 educators in Abuja, equipping them to address both local and global educational challenges, noting that for the month of October, BIC would announce a year-long initiative targeting hundreds of teachers in commemoration Teachers’ Appreciation Month.

According to the statement, “Every profession is crucial for the development and prosperity of society, but only one serves as the foundation for all others: pedagogy. Buttressing this fact is a conspicuous denominator that all successful individuals across diverse industries share — they all passed through the watchful tutelage of teachers. In every society, from ancient civilizations to today’s ultramodern era, educators have proven to be the building blocks for inventions, innovations, development, and growth. As we commemorate Teachers’ Appreciation Month, it is imperative to celebrate the educators who continue to inspire and impact the minds of generations of leaders, thinkers, and doers.

“The role of educators in shaping our society cannot be overemphasized. Statistics report that two out of three students say that their teachers are their role models. Furthermore, 83% of students agree that their teachers boosted their confidence and self-esteem; 79% say their teachers encourage them to pursue their dreams; 54% state that they had teachers who helped them navigate difficult times; and 88% of respondents accept that their teachers played a significant and positive role in their life.

“Despite the clear impact educators have on students and society, all indications show the profession is not the most financially rewarding. According to the United States Department of Labor, the average annual salary for teachers as of 2022 is $61,620. A 2022 Statista report pegged this at $66,397. In Nigeria, a 2023 report details that mid-career Secondary School teachers with five to nine years of experience earn an average salary of ₦490,565. Skilled teachers with 10-19 years of experience, on the other hand, earn an average of ₦748,800 . Of these compensations, a bulk is spent on acquiring the supplies and tools required to deliver impactful lessons and shape the minds of the young.

“Aggravating this already inconvenient reality, teachers typically work overtime developing lessons, grading papers, and counseling students. Statistics show that the average teacher spends over 400 hours working overtime every year. Given the importance of the work these phenomenal individuals are saddled with, as we commemorate Teachers’ Appreciation Month, it behooves society to find ways to make the crucial work they are engaged with as seamless as possible.

“Both the public and private sectors play a role in enhancing learning experience where they can. How does BIC, a private entity, support educators in the communities in which it operates?

“In partnership with key educational institutions around the country, BIC ensures to restore educational facilities to encourage students to remain in schools despite any force majeure of external factors. In 2022, BIC worked to complete renovate classrooms at the Local Government Nursery and Primary School and Inclusive Unit in Igando, Lagos following a flood that took place in the area.

“Annually, BIC globally commemorates Global Education Week (GEW) which takes place in November. Team members dedicate their time to volunteering as they support local schools as they enhance learning environments for students.

“The role of educators and their impact on future generations cannot be downplayed. They are the bedrock that catalyze growth, progress, and prosperity of our society. While the field has not reached its ideal state, in Nigeria and beyond, it is imperative that the public and private sectors continue to support education in all its different facets to further empower the youth and prepare them for the future job market. Over the past few years, BIC has introduced the importance of creativity into education which has led to its numerous initiatives outside the classroom. This is also in line with BIC’s philanthropic arm, the BIC Corporate Foundation – believing in the power of creativity as the driver of change and cornerstone of progress.”