By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The SAIL Innovation Lab was filled with immeasurable joy and gratitude as parents, guardians, and students gathered to celebrate the graduation ceremony of the Teenagers who successfully completed training in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Cohort 2. The event, organized by SAIL Empowerment Foundation, marked a significant milestone for the students and highlighted the visionary efforts of the co-founders, Distinguished Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru and Feyisola Abiru.
STEM education, a specialized training often out of reach for children from average and low-income households, has become a reality for these exceptional students thanks to the unwavering commitment of Senator Abiru, his wife, and the trustees of SAIL Empowerment Foundation. The graduation ceremony showcased the remarkable achievements of the students and their dedication to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Addressing the graduates, Senator Abiru emphasized the importance of continuous learning and urged them to deepen their quest for knowledge. He commended the students for their curiosity, resilience, and unwavering commitment throughout their educational journey. The senator acknowledged the progress made by Cohort 2 since its inception in late 2022, highlighting the students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills acquired during their studies.
During the ceremony, the students proudly presented their projects in physical computing, robotics, and artificial intelligence, displaying their creativity, innovation, and the transformative power of STEM education. Senator Abiru announced the expansion of the STEM program to public schools in Lagos East, demonstrating their commitment to providing equal opportunities for all young minds interested in science and technology. Currently, eight schools actively participate, benefiting 160 pupils attending the program daily for six weeks.
The senator also announced the opening of applications for the next cohort of weekend students, inviting aspiring young individuals to embark on their transformative journey through the STEM program at SAIL Innovation Lab. This opportunity aims to empower more students with essential skills and knowledge required in the ever-changing STEM landscape.
Dignitaries present at the event included Dr. (Otunba) Saheed Oladapo Ibikunle, Special Adviser to the Senator on Constituency Matters, Mr. Deji Abisola, Consultant to the Senator on SAIL Innovation Lab, Hon Abdulateef Rotimi Abiru, and Prof Surajudeen O. Mudasiru, among others.
Parents and guardians expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Senator Abiru and his wife for establishing the SAIL Innovation Lab, which has provided an invaluable opportunity for their children to learn and excel in technology and digital skills. Mr. Efe Eruotor-Pat, a parent from Delta residing in Lagos East Senatorial District, praised Senator Abiru’s visionary leadership and pan-Nigerian mindset, emphasizing that the program transcends ethnic boundaries.
The SAIL Innovation Lab, which initially operated from the constituency office of Senator Abiru, now boasts a permanent ultra-modern facility located at 1, Muba Abiru Street, made possible by the generous support of the Abiru family. The lab has become a symbol of empowerment, bridging the digital divide and equipping young individuals with the tools to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution age.
As SAIL Innovation Lab continues its mission to nurture young talents in science and technology, Senator Abiru encouraged the graduates to use their acquired skills to create a better future, break barriers, and champion inclusivity. With collective effort, he emphasized, the challenges society faces can be overcome, and a brighter tomorrow can be achieved.