Yenagoa, June 24, 2026 — The Bayelsa State Government has provided science laboratory materials to 15 public secondary schools across the eight local government areas of the state, in a move aimed at strengthening science education and improving students’ learning outcomes.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony in Yenagoa, the Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa State Education Development Trust Fund (EDTF), Prof. Ebimieowei Etebu, said practical laboratory experience remains essential for effective science learning.
He explained that hands-on experiments help students better understand scientific principles, adding that his own exposure to laboratory work years ago still shapes his appreciation of science today.
Etebu assured that the EDTF would monitor the utilisation of the equipment to ensure they are properly used for teaching and learning purposes rather than left idle.
The Chairman of the EDTF, Prof. Zekieni Yelebe, described the initiative as evidence of Governor Douye Diri’s continued commitment to raising educational standards in the state.
He urged school heads and science teachers to maintain the equipment properly and encourage students to actively participate in practical sessions that foster innovation and scientific thinking.
The Commissioner for Education, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Simon-Peter Okene, commended the EDTF for its sustained contributions to the development of the education sector in Bayelsa State.
He also cautioned principals against misusing or diverting the equipment, stressing that the items must remain in school laboratories for students’ use.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary schools, the Bayelsa State President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Mr. Court Enebibodo, expressed appreciation to the government and EDTF for the gesture.
He described the intervention as timely, noting that it would enhance students’ interest and performance in science-related subjects.
The distributed items, which cover chemistry, biology, physics, and agricultural science, include microscopes, beakers, Bunsen burners, test tubes, dissecting kits, voltmeters, and fertilisers.