By Our Correspondent
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka Branch, has begun an advocacy programme aimed at inspiring secondary school students to take interest in becoming enginers.
As part of activities to commemorate the 2025 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, the Engineers carried out an impactful outreach programme at Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School, Awka.
With the theme, “Engineering Minds, Protecting Our Planet”, the students were educated on the critical importance of ozone layer and the role of engineering in sustainable development.
The Awka branch chairman of NSE, Engr. MaryJane Okoli, engaged the students in an interactive session. She also quizzed the enthusiastic participants on their knowledge of the ozone layer, thereby sparking a lively discussion on its preservation and the need to protect the planet.
“We reaffirm our commitment to driving sustainable development and leveraging engineering expertise to address pressing environmental challenges, starting with the enlightenment of future leaders”, Engr Okoli said.
In a presentation, the branch Technical Secretary, Engr. Nzube Faith Onwurah and Engr. Dr. Nkemakonam Igbokwe, guided the students through a dynamic and educational demonstration, using placards to illustrate the causes and devastating effects of ozone layer depletion, as well as practical measures to prevent and mitigate its destruction.
In appreciation for the students’ academic excellence and participation, the Engineers presented the school with a cash prize of ₦150,000 for securing second place in the recent STEMStar Competition, while many students received individual awards for their
active involvement during the outreach session.
The branch chairman, Engr. Mary Jane Oluchi Okoli, also presented a certificate of acknowledgement to the Principal of the school, Dr. Uju Obigwe in recognition of her unwavering guidance and encouragement during the 2nd edition of the STEMSTAR competition, held as part of the 2025 Engineering Week celebrations.
The chairman observed that nder Dr. Obigwe’s leadership, her students demonstrated remarkable talent and innovation, distinguishing themselves by clinching 2nd place in the competition.
“Their project, which aligned with the theme “Sustainable Solutions,” showcased a strong commitment to addressing real-world challenges through science and engineering”, Okoli stated.
In her speech, Dr. Obigwe expressed profound gratitude to the NSE Awka branch for the impactful outreach programme and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
She also promised that Kenneth Dike Memorial Secondary School will continue to actively participate in future competitions organized by the Society.
Many members of the branch, including, Engr.. Paul Okolie, Engr. Stanley Ibemesi, Engr. Chibuzo Robinson Okoye, among others, accompanied Engr Okoli during the visit.
