TotalEnergies, NNPC fund MIT training for over 90 lecturers

TotalEnergies, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have empowered over 90 Nigerian university lecturers with world-class training.

Through the “Empowering the Teachers” (ETT) program, these educators have gained invaluable insights into innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge curriculum development at one of the world’s leading academic institutions.

Launched in 2013, the ETT program offers a unique opportunity for academics to spend an intensive semester at MIT, immersing themselves in the university’s renowned teaching philosophies and methodologies.

This exposure equips them with the skills and knowledge to transform their classrooms, injecting fresh dynamism and relevance into science and engineering education in Nigeria.

Matthieu Bouyer, managing director, TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited, mentioned that the objective is to promote innovative approaches to science and engineering education in African tertiary institutions to cultivate experts in these fields, enabling them to rival their global counterparts in critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

He said that TotalEnergies takes pride in its association with various educational initiatives, as they align with the fourth goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

He noted that these investments hold significance for TotalEnergies, as they resonate with the company’s internal sustainability key performance indicators (KPIs), particularly in terms of creating value for society.

“TotalEnergies has continued to ensure that the impacts of all its operations are managed in a way that helps preserve the environment, biodiversity and freshwater resources in a bid to promote an inclusive economy.”

He further reassured the company’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 along with society and transitioning to low-carbon energy solutions for a cleaner and safer environment.

In his remarks, Bala Wunti, chief upstream investment officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, said the symposium and awards ceremony marked a pivotal moment in recognising the exceptional contributions of educators who are shaping the future.