By Charity Ejiofor

Students of Government Technical College (GTC), Umuchu, Aguata Local Government Area, have begun using a rebuilt and equipped chemistry laboratory facilitated by the Mayor of Aguata, Dr Chibueze Ofobuike, to strengthen practical science education.

The facility is expected to improve students’ understanding of scientific concepts by providing opportunities to conduct experiments and apply classroom lessons to practical situations.

The project followed Ofobuike’s observation of the dilapidated condition of the former laboratory, prompting him to initiate its reconstruction and equipping to provide a more suitable environment for science learning.

The intervention is aimed at encouraging interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and improving students’ access to practical learning facilities.

A student of the college, Master Emeka Nwafor, said the laboratory would make science lessons more engaging and help students understand concepts that were difficult to grasp through theory alone.

“Using the laboratory gives us the opportunity to see how the things we learn in class work in practice. It will help us understand our lessons better and encourage us to develop greater interest in science,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the school management, the Principal of GTC Umuchu, Mr Emmanuel Okpalanwa, thanked Ofobuike for reconstructing and equipping the laboratory, describing the intervention as a valuable contribution to the school’s development.

Okpalanwa said the facility would improve the teaching and learning of science subjects by giving students better opportunities to conduct experiments and develop practical skills.

He said access to a functional laboratory would help prepare students for further studies and careers in science and technology, while appealing for sustained support for education.

Speaking on the motivation behind the project, Ofobuike said investment in education and youth development was important to providing young people with opportunities to acquire relevant knowledge and skills.

He said the intervention was intended to promote practical learning, stimulate scientific curiosity and prepare students to contribute to technological advancement and community development.

Ofobuike also introduced the Chibueze Ofobuike Prize for STEM Excellence to recognise the best male and female students in STEM disciplines and encourage academic achievement.

The continued benefits of the facility will depend on regular maintenance, adequate laboratory supplies and consistent use of the equipment for practical lessons.