The African Schools Outreach Programme (ASOP), initiated by the International Veterinary Vaccinology Network (IVVN), is actively addressing the underrepresentation of females in STEM fields.
Recently, the ASOP team visited Isale Oyo Community Grammar School in Oyo, where Mr. Femi Afolayan led a campaign against drug abuse and cybercrimes.
He highlighted the detrimental effects of substance abuse and the importance of resisting peer pressure.
ASOP has reached 29 schools across Nigeria, with 19 in Oyo State, sensitizing over 10,000 students on career choices and the dangers of cybercrimes and drug abuse.
Mr. Afolayan emphasized the societal roles of students, teachers, and parents in combating these issues.
The program included a hands-on workshop where students conducted a rabies diagnostic experiment. They learned about vaccines and infectious diseases, particularly rabies, under the supervision of ASOP facilitators and science teachers.
The students used personal protective equipment and laboratory tools to carry out the experiments.
Dr. Funmilayo Afolayan, ASOP Coordinator, delivered a career talk, showcasing various science career paths and encouraging students to explore beyond traditional roles.
To support sustainable development goal 2 (SDG2), students and teachers planted fruit seedlings to address the school’s nutritional needs.
Feedback from students indicated increased awareness and interest in science careers.
The Principal of Isale Oyo Community Grammar School, along with ASOP representatives, expressed gratitude to the State Government for their support and called for improved laboratory facilities in public schools.
The initiative aims to inspire students to pursue their goals and refrain from drug abuse.
Mr. Ademola Majekodunmi, the school principal, praised the facilitators and urged other organizations to support similar educational initiatives.
