In a move to improve digital learning in the Niger Delta, the NNPC Limited and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture, in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has completed a teacher training workshop and donated advanced teaching technology to secondary schools across six oil-producing states.
The training, held at the NCDMB headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, brought together 180 teachers from Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Imo, and Abia States. The aim was to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills to use the K-YAN all-in-one digital teaching device in their classrooms.
According to a statement from FIRST E&P, the K-YAN device is a compact, multimedia educational tool that combines a projector, computer, internet access, and pre-installed learning content for students from primary to secondary school (years 1 to 12). The device is designed to improve teaching quality and encourage more interactive learning among students.
Each participating school received two K-YAN devices and accompanying solar power kits to ensure uninterrupted usage, even in areas with unstable electricity supply. In total, 200 devices were distributed in this second phase of the programme.
This latest effort builds on the success of the first phase carried out in 2023, where 100 K-YAN units were delivered to schools in similar host communities. The initiative is part of the JV’s commitment to improving education infrastructure, building teacher capacity, and promoting sustainable community development in the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of Corporate Services at FIRST E&P, Mr Emmanuel Etomi, who was represented by the Nigerian Content Officer, Ms Nkem Aghadiuno, reaffirmed the company’s long-term investment in education as a key pillar of community development.
“This programme is about equipping today’s students – our future leaders – with the tools they need to compete in a rapidly evolving world. By integrating the K-YAN technology into classrooms, we’re helping to bring education to life and improve learning outcomes,” Aghadiuno said.
She added that the second phase of the K-YAN technology programme underlines the JV’s dedication to driving innovation in the classroom and promoting access to quality education through modern solutions.
Also speaking, the General Manager, Capacity Building Division at NCDMB, Mr Timbiri Augustine, commended the project and its alignment with the board’s vision of building human capital to meet the future needs of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“The training, organised by FIRST E&P in partnership with NCDMB, is in alignment with our mandate to drive human capital development. The goal is to equip teachers to better prepare students, especially in STEM education, which is essential for participation in the modern-day oil and gas industry,” Mr Augustine stated.
He reiterated NCDMB’s commitment to supporting similar initiatives that not only develop the capacity of teachers but also inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which are critical for Nigeria’s industrial growth.
Teachers who participated in the training expressed appreciation for the hands-on learning and exposure to digital tools. Blessing Unuafe, a physics teacher from SBSS Community Secondary School in Rivers State, shared her excitement over the experience.
“This has been a truly rewarding experience. Before now, I never imagined I would have the opportunity to learn how to use this kind of technology. The K-YAN device will not only make my teaching easier, but it will also make learning more engaging for my students. I believe it will spark their curiosity and enthusiasm in the classroom,” she said.
Other teachers praised the programme for exposing them to modern teaching aids and techniques they had never used before, saying it has opened up new ways to connect with students and boost learning in public schools.
With this second phase completed, the NNPC/FIRST E&P JV has now distributed a total of 300 K-YAN devices to schools in the Niger Delta. The initiative is part of the JV’s larger social investment programme focused on sustainable development, capacity building, and educational upliftment in its host communities.
The JV noted that it would continue to support community-based projects aimed at enhancing learning environments, promoting youth empowerment, and preparing future generations for opportunities in both local and global economies.
