The Need

At Ajebo Senior High School in Epe, Lagos State, science students faced a critical barrier to their academic and career ambitions: Biology instruction was taught entirely in the abstract. Without a functioning laboratory, learners had to rely solely on theoretical textbooks, videos, and basic diagrams. Because practical laboratory skills are a core component of high-stakes WASSCE and NECO exams, this hands-on deficit left aspiring doctors, nurses, and STEM professionals structurally disadvantaged when competing for future pathways in medicine and health sciences.

Our Response

Through the Prince Casper Foundation Trailblazer Grant, Fellow Philips Afolayan led the Empowering STEM: Basic Biology Laboratory project, establishing a fully equipped, hands-on learning environment directly inside the school:

• Adaptive Resourcefulness: Navigating government teaching transfers and supply hurdles, the project strategically redirected budget savings to purchase five complete dissection kits instead of two, alongside a high-quality compound microscope, safety goggles, wall charts, and essential lab accessories.

• Student Ownership: Science students from SS1 to SS3 actively participated in cleaning, organizing, and preparing the dedicated laboratory space, instilling pride and familiarity before equipment arrived.

• Built-in Sustainability: To ensure the investment outlasted the Fellow’s tenure, incoming Biology teacher Mr. Mohammed was fully onboarded and trained as the primary custodian, alongside firm oversight commitments from school management and the PTA.

The Impact

Launched officially on March 12, 2026, the new facility delivered a permanent structural upgrade to science education at Ajebo Senior High School:

• Theory Turned Into Practice: Students now prepare for national practical examinations with hands-on microscopy, sample preparation, and dissection experiments rather than memorized theory.

• Strengthened STEM Pathways: Access to real scientific instruments has elevated student confidence and sparked measurable enthusiasm for careers in health sciences and technology.

• Long-Term Institutional Value: With dedicated departmental stewardship and administrative backing, the laboratory stands as a self-sustaining asset serving senior secondary students for years to come.