Ekiti govt lauds gesture as philanthropist donates science lab to school

A philanthropist and prominent son of Iroko-Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Dr. Opeyemi Abe has donated a multi-million naira solar-powered science laboratory for Iroko Comprehensive High School, Iroko Ekiti.

Addressing the gathering at the commissioning of the edifice named ‘Christiana Opeyemi-Abe Science Laboratory Complex’, consisting of standard laboratory halls, teachers’ offices, store room and toilet facilities for students and staff, the donor who is a Medical Doctor said he took the decision for the community to produce young professionals like him in the medical and science field.

Abe, who is also the founder of Blinkers and Spoilert mobile application stressed that the facility, equipped for practical teaching in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, powered by solar energy to ensure steady electricity supply for academic activities would help to engage the minds of the students towards problem solving.

The philanthropist encouraged students of the school to make proper use of the facility by remaining focused, disciplined and committed to their studies

He noted that the laboratory could help nurture future doctors, engineers, scientists, inventors and national leaders from the community if properly utilised.

Abe emphasised that education development should not be left solely to the government, urging successful individuals to invest in their communities and support the next generation through meaningful projects.

He said, “Education remains one of the greatest investments anyone can make in society. It is the foundation upon which communities grow, nations develop and futures are secured. More importantly, science education is critical to innovation, problem-solving, healthcare, technology and national progress.

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“It is with this understanding and passion for the development of our young people that I decided to undertake the construction and donation of this laboratory complex. My desire is simple, to provide an environment where students can learn science not only in theory, but also through practical experience that will prepare them for the future.

“This facility was built to modern standards and equipped to support the teaching of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. It consists of well-structured laboratory halls, teachers’ offices, storage facilities and conveniences designed to create a conducive learning atmosphere for both students and staff.

“I strongly believe that the children of our communities deserve the same opportunities available anywhere else in the world. Talent is universal, but opportunities are not always equally distributed. Through projects like this, we can help bridge that gap and inspire greatness in our young minds.”

Commissioning the laboratory, the Chairman, Nigeria-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Committee in the House of Representatives and lawmaker representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II (Ijero/Ekiti West/Efon), Biodun Omoleye, commended the donor for the gesture aimed at complementing government’s efforts in the education sector.

Omoleye said it was uncommon to witness such interventions in rural communities, noting that the laboratory complex had transformed the school into a more complete institution capable of delivering quality science education.

According to him, practical exposure remains essential in science learning, stressing that the availability of modern laboratory equipment would improve teaching quality and broaden students’ academic exposure.

According to him, “It is a wonderful donation the school has received. It is not common to find gestures like this, especially in rural communities like this. Most successful people usually hide away and do not want people to know how successful they are. But for Dr. Opeyemi Abe, he has chosen to give back to his community.”

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, applauded the donor for investing in the future of children through education.

Aderiye, represented by the Ekiti State Chairman of Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Rhoda Ojo noted that the initiative reflected the community’s commitment to educational development and urged other towns and stakeholders to emulate such acts of giving back to society.

On his part, the Oluroye of Iroko-Ekiti, Oba Sunday Ekundayo, thanked the donor, Dr. Opeyemi Abe, who had been involving in various intervention projects such as financial assistance for artisans as well as scholarship for students at various levels.

The Principal of the School, Victoria Babatunde, described the modern science laboratory complex as a major milestone in the history of the school and her teaching career.

The Principal extolled the philanthropist for solely financing the state-of-the-art laboratories, describing him as a ‘God-sent’ benefactor whose contributions to education would remain unforgettable.