Education
Slum2School Africa Founder Shares Experience With CNN
The founder of Slum2School Africa, Mr Orondaam Otto, has had a day with CNN International for his dedication to ensuring underprivileged children in Nigeria can go to school.
In July, Mr Otto launched Nigeria’s first virtual learning classroom to help underprivileged communities across Nigeria access education during COVID-19 lockdown. So far, his initiative has reached around 1,000 children and the goal is to reach 10,000.
In a chat, he told CNN, “We believe that every Nigerian child deserves the best. This is what inspires us to do what we do…I work with volunteers across the world to provide access to quality education for children across underserved communities.”
Mr Otto has been devising innovative ways to engage students since visiting slum communities around Lagos in 2012, explaining that, “I came to realise that there were a huge number of children in these slums who weren’t going to school or who didn’t have access to education. I asked myself back then what would really give me fulfilment after completing my national youth service.”
In the interview, he explained how he was able to quickly organise and raise money, stating that, “I want people to understand that everybody can make a difference if you only believe in yourself.
“You have all the resources that you need right where you are. In about three months, I was able to get my friends together. We raised funds, and we were able to get 114 children into school for the first time.”
Buoyed by this early success, Mr Otto founded Slum2School, a social initiative that provides education and health services to disadvantaged children.
The first project was in the Makoko community in Lagos where Mr Otto focused on developing the infrastructure; fully equipping the classrooms and building an innovation lab where kids are learning computer programming and robotics.
“Our plan is to primarily ensure that every public primary school across the country has beautiful facilities like this and this is a home economics lab which is also an enterprising development centre where children can learn all kinds of skills from catering, to fashion to bead making and we’re currently working on this and building this in schools across the state,” he informed CNN.
The Makoko project is still ongoing and once complete it will become a model which can be replicated nationwide. In order to do this, Slum2School works with the government, big corporations and private donors in order to keep the organization sustainable.
An annual fundraising campaign involves over 3,000 volunteers in more than 30 different activities including walking across Lekki-Ikoyi bridge in Lagos.
CNN met Omolola Oyewloe, a lawyer who volunteered two years ago and spoke about the importance of raising funds, saying, “The first time I listened to the founder Otto on Instagram, I fell in love with the way he projected the mission of the organization.
“Growing up I had friends who could not afford school tuition and they had to go to government schools which weren’t well equipped and so bringing this initiative in and making sure every child gets the quality education they deserve is something I could easily relate with because of my friends dropping out of school growing up.”
Chairperson of Slum2School Africa, Ms Alero Ayida-Otobo, praised Mr Otto for his vision and achievements in creating change.
“Otto, in summary, has the ability to inspire. He has the ability to get you to do a lot more. He has the ability to execute and is a great strategic thinker and I actually think Slum2School is poised to change the narrative of volunteerism not just in Nigeria but in the continent of Africa,” she said.
New headquarters in Leikki will include a factory to supply uniforms, bags and equipment to local schools.
According to Mr Otto, “It’s an exciting space that’s going to really facilitate innovation, creativity, learning, in all ways. We have various amazing spaces from the innovation lab we have there, to the arts and crafts centre, where kids are going to be learning how to paint and draw and build.”
In addition to the schools Mr Otto and his team recognised that children often miss school due to illness and so they’re supporting those who require medical assistance, he said: “There’s also a huge medical program that’s been put in place to ensure that every child is not just learning but they are learning in a healthy condition. We have lots of children who need urgent medical attention to surgical interventions.”
Speaking about the impact of Slum2School Africa, Mr Otto noted that: “We’ve seen lots of our young learners and teenagers who are in secondary school or university, who started community projects, who have come together to enrol more children in their community.
“It’s inspiring seeing that ripple effect that we are creating as a community. And I think it’s fulfilling. It’s extremely fulfilling. And if I were to choose to do something again, I think I would choose this, and I think literally everyone is born to be a change maker.”
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Six classrooms and the Head Teacher’s office at the Waziri Primary School in Minna, Niger State have been renovated by Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc.
The company revamped the facilities as part of its Adopt-A-School initiative, which exemplifies its commitment to fostering better learning environments for Nigerian children.
The renovation and infrastructure upgrades carried out at the school reflect Stanbic IBTC’s dedication to sustainable educational development.
The project involved several key improvements, including the renovation of two classroom blocks; the Installation of 120 new pieces of classroom furniture; the construction of a modern computer laboratory; a modern block of 12 toilets; planting of 50 trees to enhance the school environment; and the development of a football area for recreation and physical education.
In addition to these infrastructural advancements, Stanbic IBTC provided essential learning materials to enrich the educational experience for both pupils and teachers.
These enhancements will directly benefit 1,000 students and 117 teachers; equipping them with improved resources to achieve their full potential.
This project marks another significant milestone in the Adopt-A-School initiative, which is already improving the learning conditions of those impacted in Ogun, Akwa Ibom, Ekiti, Sokoto, Borno, and Gombe states.
Through these efforts, Stanbic IBTC continues to reinforce its commitment to improving lives and shaping future generations.
Waziri Primary School is the seventh school benefiting from the organisation’s commitment to educational development in Nigeria.
At the commissioning of the project recently, the acting chief executive of Stanbic IBTC, Mr Kunle Adedeji, said, “The Adopt-A-School initiative is part of our broader mission to foster sustainable growth and development in Nigeria. We are dedicated to creating an environment where children can learn and thrive.”
In his speech, the chairman of Chanchaga Local Government, Mr Aminu Ladan, said, “It is essential to recognise and appreciate the individuals and organisations actively working to create a better future for our communities. Their efforts inspire hope and lay the groundwork for the next generation to achieve their dreams.”
The 6th edition of the InterswitchSPAK TV show is lighting up screens across the country, putting Africa’s brightest young science minds in the spotlight. Since the season premiere on Sunday, October 20, 2024, the competition has been a thrilling display of jaw-dropping brilliance, unrelenting determination, and groundbreaking innovation, as Nigeria’s top science students vie for the ultimate STEM crown.
The competition has been nothing short of electric, brimming with suspense, drama, and unforgettable moments as 18 exceptional semi-finalists have emerged after six thrilling episodes.
These young stars have brought their A-game, proving that African talent is ready to take on the world. With impressive displays of speed, accuracy, knowledge, and problem-solving prowess in STEM subjects, they’ve showcased just how sharp and innovative they truly are.
The contestants are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a STEM genius in Africa. As the weeks roll on, the stakes climb higher, and the excitement intensifies, offering us a front-row seat to watch these future trailblazers leave their mark.
The 18 semi-finalists who have emerged thus far from the intense competition include Ayomiposi Igbaroola of Greater Tomorrow International College, Ondo State; Nifesimi Itamuseye from Fountain International High School, Ekiti State; Divine Hosea representing Peace College, Iju, Lagos; Elvis Ekwelem of Graceland International School, Rivers State; Chidera Ejidike from St. Gregory College, Ikoyi, Lagos; Damilare Fakorede and King David Odey, both from Greater Tomorrow International College, Ondo State; David Babalola of Brainfield College, Salolo, Lagos; Chinaza Ejeahalaka from Marist International Secondary School, Owerri, Imo State; Samuel Ayano of Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State; Chimfumnanya Aghaduno from Penny International College, Lagos State; and Chimamanda Agbanusi from Rainbow College, Ogun State.
Also making the cut are Nwachukwu Ebubechukwu from Marist Brothers’ Juniorate B, Abia State; ThankGod Onyekachi Madu from His Grace High School, Enugu State; Ndudu Ekong Henry from Pegasus High School Eket., Akwa Ibom State; Denyefa Omare from St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos State; Jane Onwuli from Graceland International School, Rivers State and Emmanuel Olabiyi from Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State.
The competition heats up as the semi-finalists gear up for the next stage, battling fiercely for a coveted spot in the top 9. With the stakes higher than ever, they inch closer to the ultimate prizes, hoping to claim the glory and the grand rewards.
Here’s what’s in store for this year’s top contenders:
1st Place: N15 million tertiary scholarship (spread over five years), a laptop, and a monthly stipend.
2nd Place: N10 million scholarship (spread over three years) and a laptop.
3rd Place: N5 million scholarship (for one year) and a laptop.
4th to 9th Places: Impressive cash rewards for their remarkable efforts along with laptops.
Top 18 Semi-Finalists: Cash prizes awarded to recognise their achievements.
Top 27 Contributing Teachers: Cash rewards to honour their dedication and impact.
Through InterswitchSPAK, Interswitch has inspired approximately 100,000 students to pursue STEM careers, awarded millions in scholarships, and nurtured a vibrant community of young innovators and change makers.
With six episodes aired so far this season, the drama is far from over. The semi-finalists have shown exceptional promise, but only one will emerge as the champion, claiming the grand prize and the glory of being Africa’s next STEM prodigy.
As the competition heats up, don’t miss any of the thrilling moments. Tune in to catch all the action every Sunday at 5:30 p.m. on AIT Network and 6:00 p.m. on DSTV Africa Magic Family Channel 154, with repeat broadcasts on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. on the same channel.
Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes of InterswitchSPAK 6.0 and bask in the brilliance and intrigue as the journey to finding Africa’s next STEM champion continues!
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Multi-million Naira educational support projects have been donated by Dangote Cement Plc to secondary schools in Lagos as part of its social investment initiatives aimed at complementing the government’s efforts in providing quality and sustainable education in the state.
The projects, warmly received by both teachers and students, include 100 dual school desks for Ilado Community Junior High School and Wahab Folawiyo Senior High School, alongside a refurbished and fully equipped chemistry laboratory at Government Senior Secondary School, Ikoyi.
Also donated were reading tables, chairs, and bookshelves for the library at Government Junior Secondary School, Ikoyi.
The leading cement manufacturer noted that the projects align with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on education focused on ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education, as well as promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
According to the Managing Director of Dangote Cement, Mr Arvind Pathak, the company is dedicated to giving back to society and supporting the sustainable development of local communities, especially in areas where it operates.
“Education holds a pivotal role in the development and empowerment of the youths in the country. As a cornerstone for societal advancement, it serves as a critical tool for personal growth, economic development, and national progress.
“An educated youth population not only fosters individual success but also contributes significantly to the nation’s overall well-being.
“At Dangote Cement, we believe that providing quality education to our youth is vital and should not be left solely as the government’s responsibility. Thus, we aim to partner with the government to enhance educational development in this regard.
“The projects we are handing over today are part of our 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme for selected schools within the neighbourhood of Dangote Cement’s head office in Ikoyi, Lagos. These projects were selected based on need assessments in collaboration with the schools,” Mr Pathak, represented by the Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement, Mr Wakeel Olayiwola, stated.
Speaking further, he said, “This year, our plants in Ibese, Ogun State; Obajana, Kogi State; Gboko, Benue State; Okpella, Edo State; and our Pan-African operations have launched several social investment projects. These efforts contribute to the quality of life in our host communities and support sustainable national development.”
Mr Pathak thanked the Lagos State Government, the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, and the school management teams for their collaboration in identifying the schools’ needs and ensuring the timely completion of the projects.
Responding, the Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Education District 3, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Ms Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, who was represented by the Director of School Administration, Mr Bolaji Rotimi Ajayi, praised the long-standing partnership with Dangote Cement, noting that the schools selected for the donations were fortunate beneficiaries.
The Principal of Ilado Community Junior High School, Ikoyi, Mrs Odunlami Olubunmi, thanked Dangote Cement for the new desks, stating that the donation would significantly improve the learning environment for the students, helping to prepare them for a brighter future.
Also, the Principal of the school with the refurbished laboratory, Bamidele Ayotunde, urged other businesses to follow Dangote Cement’s example in supporting local schools, pointing out the positive impact of the laboratory’s renovation on the school’s learning environment.
Further, the Principal of Ireti Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi, whose school received the new desktop computers, described the donation as a positive development and expressed hope for more support in the future.
Pupils also shared their appreciation for their contributions. Abiola Jamaudeen, a lab prefect at Government Senior College, Ikoyi, promised that the laboratory would be used to its fullest potential and well-maintained.
Lawal Rumayzo Abdulsalam, a student at the school, said the new library equipment would foster better reading habits and create a more conducive environment for learning, ultimately preparing them for success. Some students even performed special songs to welcome the Dangote team to their schools.
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