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September 27, 2024, Lagos: IHS Nigeria, part of IHS Holding Limited (NYSE: IHS) (“IHS Towers”) group, one of the largest independent owners, operators, and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count, brought together key stakeholders for a roundtable discussion on September 24, in Lagos. The discussion focused on strategies aimed at integrating more STEM education into classrooms across Nigeria through the lens of space exploration.
The event was part of IHS’ strategic partnership with the Limitless Space Institute (LSI) on the Limitless Global Educator Program, designed to help broaden access to space education in Brazil and Nigeria. During the roundtable discussion, 10 Nigerian educators shared their experiences from the program, helping foster a valuable dialogue on combining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects with space education in Nigeria.
LSI is a non-profit education and research organization. Their 12-month Limitless Global Educator Program provides educators with an opportunity to explore a range of topics, including the science underpinning space, its history, the economics of space, as well as sustainable exploration and space ethics. Through this partnership, IHS Towers and LSI aim to help inspire new generations about the wonders and intricacies of space.
In this inaugural year of the program, IHS Nigeria sponsored 10 educators selected through a comprehensive evaluation process. These educators also joined their counterparts from Brazil (sponsored by IHS Brazil) at LSI’s Summer Institute in Houston, Texas, where they had the opportunity to engage with astronauts and engineers. The program is endorsed by key Nigerian institutions including the Federal Ministries of Education, Innovation Science and Technology, and the National Space Research and Development Agency.
Dapo Otunla, SVP, Chief Corporate Services Officer, IHS Nigeria, said “The human mind is a powerful force. For us, education and economic growth are key pillars of our sustainability strategy, with the mind as the foundation for all progress. We are actively involved in various educational initiatives, with a particular focus on increasing access to STEM subjects. Partnering with LSI on this program perfectly aligns with our Mission T program, which focuses on promoting STEM education.”
“It is important to emphasize that IHS Towers began its journey in Nigeria in 2001. As a leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure, IHS manages over 16,000 towers across the country, cementing its role as the backbone of digital possibilities in Nigeria. With such an extensive footprint, IHS is deeply invested in the nation's economic growth, and the positive impact of our operations is felt in the many communities where we operate.” He added.
Kaci Heins, Executive Director, Limitless Space Institute said "Over 200 teachers applied across Nigeria. It was a very challenging review process, but we are honored to have the 10 that were selected. Every month, we meet with them to go through a carefully curated space education curriculum, delivered by a guest speaker from the space industry. We are excited to be in Nigeria to work with these educators and visit local schools."
Maranatha Haa, a Beneficiary from Federal Government College, Jos, shared her experience: “This program has introduced me to the exciting possibilities of space science and the importance of collaboration across borders. I am eager to share what I have learned with my students and fellow educators.”
IHS Nigeria also expressed their intention to help sponsor one project from each participating educator in Nigeria, focused on addressing a core need within their schools.
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About IHS Towers: IHS Towers is one of the largest independent owners, operators and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count and is solely focused on the emerging markets. The Company has over 40,000 towers across its 10 markets, including Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Kuwait, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa and Zambia. For more information, please email: [email protected] or visit: www.ihstowers.com
About Limitless Space Institute: Limitless Space Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire and educate the next generation to travel beyond our solar system and to research and develop enabling technologies. LSI advances the pursuit of relevant deep space exploration R&D through the following student-engaging programs:
For more information, please visit: https://www.limitlessspace.org/