Akwa Ibom school renovation project in Iko Town earns praise as government urges locals to safeguard upgraded facilities delivered by VCDF and SEEPCO

Akwa Ibom school renovation project has received official commendation following the completion of major upgrades at Community Secondary School, Iko Town, in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.

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The state government, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh, urged community leaders, teachers, and students to take responsibility for the long-term care and maintenance of the renovated school structures.

The project, delivered by the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF) in partnership with Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), includes the renovation of 18 classrooms across four blocks, eight offices, a library block, solar power installation, two rehabilitated boreholes, and new male and female toilet facilities.

Speaking at the commissioning on Sunday, Prof. Umoh said the initiative aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s Arise Agenda, calling on the community to protect the investments made.

“These facilities must be safeguarded and maintained. I urge the school management, teachers, and community leaders to take ownership of this project.

Only then can we sustain the benefits of this initiative,” he stated.

Executive Chairman of the State Secondary Education Board, Dr Ekaete Okon, reinforced the sentiment, encouraging teachers to fully utilise the infrastructure to improve learning outcomes.

Dr Ekerette Akpan, the school principal, along with student leaders, expressed deep appreciation for the support but appealed for further assistance, especially the construction of a drainage system to address persistent flooding issues.

The project is part of the VCDF Model School Initiative, a long-term plan supported by SEEPCO to boost education in underserved communities through its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments.

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Organisers noted that the school renovation marks another step in bridging educational inequality in rural Akwa Ibom and reflects the power of strategic corporate partnerships in national development.