Schneider Electric Opens Multimodal Education Centre in Bonny Island

Schneider Electric has inaugurated a multimodal centre at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny Island, Rivers State, aimed at improving access to examination and testing facilities for students in the area.

The facility is designed to address transportation challenges faced by students who previously travelled to Port Harcourt for examinations, often at high cost and with security concerns. The centre will serve as a multi-testing hub, supporting examinations and training across different levels of education.

Speaking at the unveiling, the Country President of Schneider Electric, West Africa, Ajibola Akindele, said the initiative aligns with the company’s focus on expanding access to education and supporting sustainable development. He noted that the centre, which began as a JAMB testing facility, has been expanded to serve broader educational needs within the community.

The centre forms part of Schneider Electric’s long-standing engagement in Nigeria, where the company has operated for over 25 years. It is expected to support education, skills development and employment opportunities for young people in Bonny Island.

Community leaders welcomed the project, describing it as a major relief for families who previously incurred significant expenses travelling by sea to Port Harcourt for examinations. They said the centre would reduce both financial and security risks for students.

Also speaking, the marketing manager of Schneider Electric West Africa, Omobolanle Omotayo, said the facility addresses one of the major barriers to educational progression by making testing and examinations more accessible to students within their community.

The acting rector of the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, Dr Akos Noel Ibrahim, said the centre would enhance the quality of teaching and learning by providing internet-enabled resources and supporting partnerships with examination bodies. He added that the facility would help students and staff stay aligned with industry developments.

On power supply, Akindele said the centre’s energy infrastructure is largely supported by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), with Schneider Electric providing a backup system to ensure uninterrupted electricity.