By Felix Ojo
In an effort to finding a lasting solution to the perpetual academic problems facing his community, Okeagbe-Akoko, Ondo State, and environs, a young engineer has taken it upon himself to combat the challenges of encouraging youngsters in academic excellence, which have been neglected by the successive governments of Ondo State.
Ajayi Foluso is a graduate of electrical and electronics engineering at Ekiti State University, but has abandoned his engineering career and embraced humanitarian service.
Ajayi said he has a mission to build a great literate community and nation through his initiative called ‘Stem Education Foundation, whose activities include organizing tutorial classes for students with an emphasis on sciences, school enrollment, and inspirational and motivational talks.
Speaking today at one of the educational centers, Ajuwa Grammar School, Okeagbe Akoko, Ajayi, popularly known as Engineer Brown, inspired the returning students with encouraging words and advice in preparation for the forthcoming senior secondary certificate examinations,.
“The inspiration came from the need to find purpose and give meaning to life. I discovered this in 2012 and started working towards it as I see it as my divine calling and assignment on Earth.
“I commenced this project in my community when I saw lack of science teachers inn secondary schools and neglect by authorities.
“Government has refused to recruit science teachers in primary and secondary schools not only in Okeagbe but the entire Ondo State, and the students suffer for it.
“It is a difficult problem, but God has given me the mindset to tackle it. Every problem is a gift; without problems, we would not grow,” said Ajayi.
‘STEM’ is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Educational services are rendered freely by Engineer Brown alongside giving educational materials, which include textbooks, notebooks, and school uniforms.
And this course has helped over 30 students progress into various universities.
Adeki Amudat Modupe, one of the beneficiaries who has gained admission to the university, was overwhelmed with joy.
“I never believed this could happen to me; if not for you, brother, what would be my fate?
“Sir, I will forever be grateful to you for this great help you did for me and my family.
“My mother will be the happiest on Earth today when she finally knows that her daughter will be going to university.” Amudat stated.
Engineer Brown, STEM Education Coordinator, has vowed not to be weary but rather to take STEM Education to another level with the introduction of programming, the introduction to breedboards, and soldering, with support from Professor Sola Aliu, the STEM Education Chairman.
