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MOUAU Promotes STEM, Reading Culture Through School Outreach
MOUAU Promotes STEM, Reading Culture Through School Outreach
The Centre for Gender, Youth and Child Development at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has intensified efforts to promote reading culture and stimulate interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) among schoolchildren through a book outreach programme across Abia State.
The initiative, led by the Centre’s Director, Professor Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka, in partnership with the non-governmental organisations; Hope for Farmers, Women and Girls Initiative, and Heart for Souls, also seeks to encourage young learners to explore agriculture and climate-resilient farming.
As part of the programme, the team visited several schools, distributing copies of Professor Onwuka’s book, Greatness Grows from the Soil: Inspired to Excel—Discovering Soil Science, and engaging pupils and students in interactive reading sessions.
The outreach began at Amaowom Secondary School, Oboro, on May 20, 2026, followed by Evangel Secondary School, Old Umuahia, on May 29. The team also visited other schools during the programme, including MOUAU Demonstration Primary School on June 22 and Ogbodiukwu Secondary School on September 30, 2026.
According to the Centre’s Director, the school coverage by the team was part of efforts to extend the initiative to more learners across the state.
She said: “Beyond distributing books, the team guided the learners through selected topics, explaining scientific concepts in simple and engaging ways to stimulate curiosity, strengthen reading habits and promote interest in agriculture.
“The book introduces young readers to practical topics in soil science and agricultural innovation, including soil texture, soil management, the Internet of Things (IoT) in agriculture, compost and biochar production, climate-smart farming, erosion prevention and conservation agriculture.
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“Through these topics, the initiative seeks to demonstrate the relevance of soil science to environmental protection, agricultural productivity, food security and sustainable development. It also encourages children to consider agriculture as a field offering opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and rewarding careers.”
In addition to the school visits, copies of the book were donated to schools whose pupils visited the university’s greenhouse and glasshouse facilities on educational excursions. Individual families also received copies to encourage parents and guardians to promote reading at home and nurture their children’s interest in science and agriculture.
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This initiative, she said reflects the Centre’s commitment to educational development, gender and youth advancement, and community engagement through knowledge sharing and practical learning.
“By taking science and agriculture beyond the classroom, the Centre and its partners aim to inspire a new generation of scientists, agricultural innovators and professionals equipped to contribute to sustainable agriculture, environmental management and food security in Nigeria”, she noted.
Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka
The Agriculturist further explained that the programme also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 5 on Gender Equality, by promoting learning opportunities and encouraging young people, including girls, to explore scientific and agricultural careers.
By Chukwuemeka Egejuru
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