The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) Women Commission, Lagos Zone, has demonstrated its unwavering dedication to educational advancement by providing essential learning resources to students of Mayegun Community Primary School in Eti-Osa, Lagos. This philanthropic endeavor, falling under the umbrella of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and the 2024 Back to School Project, aims to empower young learners and pave the way for their academic success. The gesture underscores PENGASSAN’s commitment to investing in the future generation and recognizing the transformative power of education.
This year’s Back to School Project held at the Mayegun Community Primary School signifies a continuation of PENGASSAN’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility, specifically within the educational sector. The chairman of PENGASSAN Lagos Zone emphasized the alignment of this project with the broader vision of the Trade Union Congress President, Festus Osifo, highlighting the organization’s strategic focus on impactful CSR activities. These initiatives extend across four key zones – Port Harcourt, Lagos, Warri, and Kaduna – demonstrating a nationwide dedication to community development and a particular emphasis on educational empowerment.
The choice of focusing on education stems from its crucial role in shaping the future workforce, particularly within technically demanding industries like oil and gas. By investing in the education of today’s children, PENGASSAN is effectively investing in the future of its own industry. The chairman pointed out that these students represent the future talent pool for the oil and gas sector, underscoring the importance of nurturing their academic growth. He further emphasized that education is the most sustainable pathway to a prosperous future, and initiatives like the Back to School Project serve to inspire children to recognize the inherent value of education.
The Deputy National Chairperson of the PENGASSAN Women Commission, Lagos Zone, provided further context for the Back to School Project, revealing its five-year history. She explained that the initiative originated from a recognized need to support children lacking access to basic school supplies. The program strategically targets public schools, particularly those outside the bustling Lagos metropolis, to ensure that resources reach those most in need. This deliberate focus on public schools underscores PENGASSAN’s commitment to equitable access to education and their desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of children who may face significant socio-economic challenges. The emphasis on reaching schools beyond the city center further highlights their commitment to extending their impact to underserved communities.
Beyond the immediate provision of school supplies, the Back to School Project incorporates a unique element of recognizing and rewarding exemplary behavior. Each year, the best-behaved girl and boy in Primary Six are selected for ongoing support, receiving assistance with their educational needs throughout their secondary school journey. This long-term commitment not only encourages positive behavior but also demonstrates PENGASSAN’s dedication to fostering sustained academic success. It’s a testament to their belief in holistic development, recognizing that academic achievement goes hand in hand with character development.
The impact of PENGASSAN’s initiative has been widely acknowledged and appreciated, with representatives from the Lagos State University Education Board and Eti-Osa Local Government Education Authority commending their efforts. They highlighted the profound impact of providing essential school supplies like bags and books, particularly for children facing financial hardship. These resources not only alleviate some of the financial burden on families but also contribute significantly to the children’s sense of self-worth and belonging. The act of receiving these supplies can boost their self-esteem and motivate them to engage more actively in their studies. The representative further emphasized the importance of corporate social responsibility, stressing that organizations have a duty to give back to society, particularly in areas like education that have a transformative impact on individuals and communities. The annual Back to School Project serves as a powerful example of how organizations can effectively contribute to the well-being of future generations, fostering hope and opportunity for a brighter future.
