Dangote Cement Transforms Lagos Educational Infrastructure for 2,500 Students
By Patience Ikpeme
In a remarkable display of their commitment to corporate social responsibility, Dangote Cement Plc unveiled a series of extensive educational infrastructure upgrades in Lagos Island, Lagos State, over the weekend.
These projects, with a total investment in the millions, are set to benefit more than 2,500 students. The improvements include the installation of a 5kva Solar Power source to power ICT centers at Kuramo Junior College, Victoria Island; Victoria Island Senior School, Victoria Island; and Girls Senior Secondary School, Obalende, Lagos. Additionally, Dangote Cement renovated and furnished the school library at Girls Junior Secondary School, Obalende, and the staff room at Kuramo Senior College, Victoria Island.
Mr. Arvind Pathak, Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement, highlighted the significance of these initiatives within the company’s Social Investment Program, emphasizing their contributions to education, health, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development in society.
He stressed that Dangote Cement is committed to supporting education and improving the quality of life for communities surrounding its operations.
Ms. Marie Christiane Kaul, Pan Africa Regional Chief Financial Officer, representing Mr. Pathak, explained that the selection of these projects was based on need, determined through a collaborative process with the schools themselves. These initiatives aim to address critical requirements identified by the schools and enhance the quality of education.
Dangote Cement’s commitment to complementing government efforts in the four identified areas, including education, aligns with their belief in the vital role of education in development. These projects are expected to benefit more than 2,500 students and align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 7, which focus on quality education and sustainable energy provision.
The company encourages students and staff to make the most of these facilities and ensure their continued use for an extended period. Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary, Education District 3, Lagos State Ministry of Education, expressed gratitude for Dangote Cement’s intervention in the provision of educational infrastructure, reflecting the Lagos State Government’s commitment to public-private partnerships in enhancing education infrastructure.
Lawal Babatunde, the Principal of Kuramo Senior College, extended his thanks for the improved staff room, emphasizing the positive impact on teachers’ comfort and morale. Wakeel Olayiwola, Group Head of Social Performance, emphasized that Dangote Cement remains committed to community development, and further projects are underway for educational institutions across the country.
The company enters into Community Development Agreements with host communities, outlining necessary interventions to complement government efforts in meeting community needs.”
