By Edefo Henry
Towards enhancing quality and functional education across Edo State, the State Government, through its Ministry of Science and Technology, has commenced the distribution of science laboratory equipment to public schools.
During the distribution exercise at Ujabhole Grammar School, Irrua, in Edo Central Senatorial District, the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr. Jonathan Ukpebor (JP), stated that the equipment was fully funded by the Edo State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Sen. Monday Okpebholo.
Mr. Ukpebor emphasized that the lack of essential laboratory equipment had hindered students’ understanding of scientific concepts, and that the intervention would significantly improve learning outcomes. He noted that the exercise marks the first phase of the project, with subsequent distributions planned in batches to other public schools across the State.
According to him, “The availability of this equipment will enable students to engage in practical experiments, thus reinforcing theoretical knowledge and fostering better comprehension of scientific principles.
“This initiative is also designed to promote interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, particularly among students aspiring to pursue science-oriented disciplines, such as medicine, biological sciences, and nursing. With hands-on experience, they will be better prepared for academic success at higher levels.”
The Principal of Ujabhole Grammar School, Mr. Asemota Unity, expressed gratitude to the State Government, describing the initiative as historic. He stated, “We are deeply appreciative of this gesture by the Ministry of Science and Technology. Since I assumed office as Principal, this is the first time such an impactful intervention has occurred. It clearly demonstrates the commitment of this administration to nurturing the potential of our youth through education.”
Similarly, the School’s Chemistry teacher, Mr. Igene Andrew, expressed joy at the development, noting that prior to the distribution, the school lacked active laboratory equipment. He asserted that the provision of the tools would motivate students to engage more actively in their science education.
The equipment distributed include 250ml flat-bottom Petri dishes, conical flasks, beakers, metal pulleys, spring balances, funnels, glass prisms, clamps, long clamps, resistors, filter papers, concave and convex lenses, mirrors, microscope slides, bar magnets, pendulum balls, hand lenses, red and blue litmus papers, screw clamps, test tubes, retort stands, cross patterns, amongst others.
