A global professional services firm, Ernst & Young (EY), has refurbished and handed over fully equipped Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories to Wahab Folawiyo Senior Secondary School, Ikoyi, Lagos, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.
The multi-million-naira intervention was executed under the firm’s EY Ripples programme, an initiative designed to create a positive social impact in communities where the organisation operates. The newly upgraded laboratories are furnished with state-of-the-art equipment and laboratory reagents to enhance practical learning and scientific experimentation among students.
Comprehensive Facility Upgrade
The project involved a complete renovation of the laboratory spaces, environmental improvements, and the provision of modern learning resources to create a conducive environment for science education. The intervention is expected to significantly improve hands-on learning and students’ academic performance in science subjects.
EY Ripples Impact Since 2014
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Talent Leader for EY West Africa (Nigeria and Ghana), Jane Onobhayedo, disclosed that the EY Ripples programme was launched in 2014. Since inception, it has supported eight EY-adopted schools within the district, delivering six science laboratories, two libraries, and sick bays in selected primary schools.
According to her, the initiative aligns with EY’s global purpose of building a better working world and positively impacting communities, particularly in the education sector.
She explained that Wahab Folawiyo Senior Secondary School was selected in collaboration with Education District III, which oversees public secondary schools on Lagos Island. After evaluating three schools, the institution was identified as having the most pressing infrastructural needs.
Onobhayedo emphasised that strengthening STEM education is critical for national development, noting that science laboratory projects remain a key focus of the firm’s CSR interventions.
Government Applauds Initiative
The Permanent Secretary, Education District III, Olawale Osinaike, commended EY for its commitment to public education and reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s willingness to collaborate with private organisations to improve educational infrastructure. He pledged that the refurbished facilities would be properly maintained to prevent deterioration.
Similarly, the Chief Operating Officer, Oluwabusayo Layade, who represented the Country and Cluster Managing Partner (West), Anthony Oputa, reiterated that the EY Ripples programme would continue to provide resources and support to public schools.
He expressed appreciation to EY staff members for their contributions and stressed the importance of fostering a conducive learning environment for students.
School Expresses Gratitude
The Principal of Wahab Folawiyo Senior Secondary School, Abdulaziz Oyetunde, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the intervention, noting that the upgraded laboratories would significantly enhance science teaching and learning in the school.
