In a landmark initiative aimed at bolstering education and promoting sustainable development, Baobab+ Nigeria has partnered with JCI Abeokuta Hills, to provide solar lighting to schools across Ogun State.
The project, dubbed “Unleash A Child’s Potential,” was officially launched at Baptist Girls’ College Idi Aba, Abeokuta, with the goal of revitalising the reading culture among secondary school students and creating a more conducive learning environment.
The launch event, held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, saw key stakeholders in attendance. Mr. Kolawole Osinowo, Chief Executive Officer, Baobab+ Nigeria, emphasized the project’s alignment with the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility and its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Providing energy to light an environment, especially in schools, is akin to giving life,” Osinowo stated. “Our mission at Baobab+ is to ensure easy access to energy in schools and communities, in line with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 7. Lighting educational environments enhances reading habits, improves academic performance, and boosts productivity.”
Reinforcing the significance of the initiative, Osinowo cited the words of the school’s principal, noting, “When you light up an environment, you light up a life. The synergy of Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) of the SDGs unleashes tremendous potential, particularly in the education sector. We partnered with JCI Abeokuta Hills because they excel in developing young people.”
Baobab+ Nigeria, operating in 21 locations nationwide, has identified Abeokuta as a key area for their solar energy distribution. Osinowo assured that Baptist Girls’ College is just the beginning, with plans to expand the initiative to other schools and communities.
He also called on the government to prioritize energizing education, arguing that it would unlock the potential of young people and create greater opportunities for both students and teachers.
The event also featured a demonstration of Baobab+’s latest innovation, a portable solar power station designed to meet various energy needs. This high-capacity device can power essential equipment such as fridges, coolers, medical devices, and more, providing a quiet and fume-free energy solution.
In her welcome address, JCIN Amb. Eniola Adesanya, President of JCI Abeokuta Hills, expressed her optimism about the project’s positive impact. “Educating children secures the leadership of tomorrow. Unlocking their potential shapes future leaders,” she remarked.
Mrs. Stella Iwedi, Principal of Baptist Girls’ College, shared the challenges the school faced due to inadequate lighting, particularly in the hostel areas. “With the new solar lights, our students are now safer and can read at night,” she said, thanking Baobab+ Nigeria for addressing the school’s critical needs and calling on other organisations to follow suit.
Mrs. Funmi Baker, President of the Baptist Girls’ College Alumni, also praised the project, highlighting its significant impact on students’ ability to study at night.
JCIN Amb. Abel Badmus, Immediate Past President of JCI Abeokuta Hills, encouraged students to join JCI in higher institutions to continue making positive societal impacts and developing their leadership skills.
As the event concluded, attendees were optimistic that the “Unleash A Child’s Potential Project” would pave the way for a brighter future for students in Ogun State, fostering a better educational environment and setting a precedent for other regions to emulate.
