On 26th April 2024, representatives from W.TEC Kwara State embarked on a courtesy visit to the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the existing partnership between W.TEC and the Ministry, discuss ongoing programmes, and explore opportunities for further collaboration. The following were involved in the meeting:
Participants:
- W.TEC Kwara State Staff
- Miss Oluwayemis Efunnuga (Programme Coordinator)
- Mr. Lesley Tarabina (Curriculum Developer)
- Director of Human Capital Development Office (Alhaji Oloru)
- W.TEC Desk Officer (Mrs. Audu)
- HOD ICT (Mrs. Jimoh)
- Permanent Secretary (Mrs. Olarewaju Rebecca)
Visit to Director of Human Capital Development Office:
The team commenced the visit by stopping at the office of the Director of Human Capital Development to greet the newly appointed director, Alhaji Oloru. They were warmly welcomed by Mrs. Audu, the W.TEC Desk Officer, and Mrs. Jimoh, the HOD ICT. Subsequently, the team was escorted to the director’s office where Mrs. Tolulope, representing W.TEC, introduced the team and provided a brief overview of W.TEC’s initiatives, programs, and the impact made thus far. The Director expressed his appreciation for the visit and highlighted his familiarity with W.TEC’s work, having been briefed upon his assumption of office. He emphasized the importance of the Commissioner’s endorsement and promptly directed the team to meet with the Permanent Secretary before proceeding further.
Upon arrival at the Permanent Secretary’s office, Mrs. Olarewaju Rebecca, the purpose of the visit was reiterated to her. Mrs. Tolulope provided a comprehensive overview of W.TEC’s objectives, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in STEM education and empowering young girls with ICT skills.
Discussion Highlights: During the discussions, several key points were highlighted:
- The long-standing partnership between W.TEC and the Ministry, dating back to 2017.
- W.TEC’s efforts to spark the girls’ interest in STEM through the Academy involves providing ICT skills training to secondary school students in Kwara State. Focusing on areas such as animation, graphic design, web design etc.
- Challenges faced, including the recent burglary incident at Government Day Secondary School, Adewole, which resulted in the destruction of solar facilities and suspension of W.TEC Academy activities at the school.
- The need for collaboration and support from the Ministry to address challenges and scale up W.TEC Academy initiatives, including expansion into higher institutions.
Response from the Permanent Secretary:
Mrs. Olarewaju Rebecca expressed her gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the importance of W.TEC’s initiatives in promoting ICT literacy among girls. She regretted the Commissioner’s absence due to an unforeseen official meeting but assured the team of her support and commitment to fostering collaboration.
Mrs. Rebecca emphasized the role of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in addressing school-specific challenges, citing the vast number of schools in Kwara State and the limitations faced by the government in addressing each school’s needs individually. She stressed the need for voluntary support from the PTA to complement government efforts.
Closing Remarks and Future Collaboration:
In closing, Mr. Lesley expressed appreciation for the guidance provided and assured the Ministry of W.TEC’s commitment to supporting schools and scaling up initiatives despite economic challenges. Miss Yemisi spoke briefly on the projects W.TEC may be bringing to Kwara reiterating our intention to expand into higher institutions and sought continued support and approval from the Ministry.
Mrs. Rebecca reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for W.TEC’s endeavors and requested regular reporting to facilitate collaboration. The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of gratitude and a shared commitment to advancing ICT education in Kwara State.
Conclusion:
The courtesy visit to the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development was instrumental in reaffirming the partnership between W.TEC and the Ministry. It provided an opportunity to discuss ongoing initiatives, address challenges, and explore avenues for future collaboration. Moving forward, both parties remain committed to empowering young girls with ICT skills and bridging the gender gap in STEM education.