By Adedapo Adesanya
IHS Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of IHS Holding Limited (IHS Towers), one of the world’s largest independent owners, operators, and developers of shared communications infrastructure, has reiterated its commitment to developing the intersection of science education and space technology sectors in Nigeria.
This came on the back of the Global Educators Programme, held in Nigeria for the first time, sponsored by IHS Nigeria in collaboration with Limitless Space Institute (LSI), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing professional development in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields tied to space exploration, seeks to inspire both educators and students while enhancing STEM learning experiences.
At an event in Lagos, the 10 beneficiaries who had embarked on a one-year sponsored training on STEM and space education were hosted in the United States and partially in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Corporate Services Officer at IHS Nigeria, Mr Dapo Otunla, reiterated its commitment to education and capacity development in the country, saying it was a core pillar of the company.
“For us, education and economic growth are key pillars of our sustainability programme, with the mind as the foundation for all progress. IHS has been deeply involved in educational initiatives, especially in STEM, as we are fundamentally a company of engineers. Partnering with LSI aligns perfectly with our Mission T programme, which promotes STEM education,” he stated.
Mr Otunla highlighted that IHS Nigeria, which started operations in 2001, has invested in technology innovation hubs, such as those in Alimosho, Lagos State, and Ogbomosho, Oyo State, to support education and technology advancement across Nigeria.
Adding her input, LSI’s Executive Director, Ms Kaci Heinz, disclosed that over 200 teachers from public schools across Nigeria applied for the programme, with only ten ultimately selected to join an additional ten teachers from Brazil for the year-long training.
“By connecting STEM education with the captivating subject of space, we aim to inspire both educators and students while simultaneously enhancing STEM learning experiences.
“These teachers are expected to return and impart the knowledge gained to their students, nurturing a new generation of interest in STEM education,” she explained.
Some of the beneficiaries told Business Post about their experiences and the goal for continuity post-programme.
Mrs Maranatha Haa, a Chemistry teacher from Federal Government College, Jos, said, “This programme has introduced me to the exciting possibilities of space science and the importance of collaboration across borders. I’m eager to share what I’ve learned with my students and fellow educators.”
On his part, Mr Olayinka Adeoshun, from Ilupeju Junior Grammar School, Lagos, shared, “The training has exposed me to what I could never have imagined in space science. My students are now more motivated than ever in space technology education. We’ve even established a virtual knowledge exchange programme with the Space Institute in Houston.”
Dipo Olowookere