Baobab+, JCI Abeokuta Hills Light-Up Ogun Schools With Solar Power

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In a significant stride towards enhancing education and fostering sustainable development, Baobab+ partnered with JCI Abeokuta Hills to provide solar lighting to schools in Ogun State.

The initiative aimed to create a conducive learning environment, and restore the reading culture among secondary school students.

The “Unleash A Child’s Potential Project” kickoff at Baptist Girls’ College Idi Aba on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Kolawole Osinowo, CEO of Baobab+, posited that providing solar energy to the school aligns with Baobab+’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

He highlighted the importance of lighting educational environments to enhance reading habits, improve academic performance, and boost productivity.

“Providing energy to light an environment, especially in schools, is akin to giving life,” Mr. 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.”

Echoing the words of the school’s Principal, Osinowo added, “When you light up an environment, you light up a life. We are committed to providing energy access in communities and schools. 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.”

Mr. Osinowo noted that Baobab+ operates in 21 locations nationwide, with Abeokuta being a key area for their solar energy distribution. He emphasized that Baptist Girls’ College is just the beginning, with plans for broader initiatives.

He also urged the government to prioritize energizing education, as it would unlock the potential of young people and create greater opportunities for both students and teachers.

In her welcome address, JCIN Amb. Eniola Adesanya, President of JCI Abeokuta Hills, expressed optimism about the project’s positive impact on the school. She underscored that educating children secures the leadership of tomorrow and that unlocking their potential shapes future leaders.

Mrs. Stella Iwedi, Principal of Baptist Girls’ College, narrated the challenges posed by darkness on the school premises, especially for hostel students.

She highlighted the safety issues, including encounters with reptiles and night reading impediments.

“With the new solar lights, our students are now safer and can read at night,” Iwedi said. She thanked Baobab+ for addressing the school’s critical needs and called on other organizations to emulate Baobab+ and JCI Abeokuta Hills in their humanitarian efforts.

Supporting the initiative, Mrs. Funmi Baker, President of the Baptist Girls’ College Alumni, expressed satisfaction with the project, noting its significant impact on students’ ability to study at night.

Furthermore, 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.