The Presidential Community Engagement Office (South-West) has rolled out the second edition of the BAT-STEM programme, a flagship initiative under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s human capital development and preparing the next generation for a technology-driven future.
Announcing the launch, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-West) said the initiative will provide scholarships, hands-on training, educational kits for students, teaching materials for teachers, and broader community support. The BAT-STEM programme which stands for Scholarship, Training, Education, and Mentorship is focused on nurturing future talent and positioning Nigerian youths to compete and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Through a comprehensive approach that combines mentorship with access to learning tools and opportunities, the programme seeks to address skill gaps in STEM education and build a strong pipeline of innovators, scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers who will drive the nation’s economic growth.
According to the organisers, the second edition is expected to deepen the impact of the initiative by reaching more schools and communities across the South-West, especially those in underserved areas. By doing so, it aims to democratise access to STEM education, inspire curiosity among young learners, and equip teachers with the resources needed to deliver quality instruction.
The initiative also underscores the government’s commitment to investing in human capital as a cornerstone of national development. With global economies increasingly shaped by technology and innovation, the BAT-STEM programme is seen as a strategic effort to ensure that Nigerian children are not left behind in the evolving digital landscape.
Beyond classroom learning, BAT-STEM integrates mentorship and real-world exposure into its design, connecting students with professionals and role models in STEM-related fields. This approach, according to the organisers, helps students build confidence, expand their aspirations, and gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them.
By fostering a generation of innovators and critical thinkers, the BAT-STEM programme is expected to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s long-term economic competitiveness and technological advancement. The organisers reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining and expanding the programme in collaboration with schools, communities, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that more young Nigerians benefit from quality STEM education and mentorship.
