A cross section of participants in the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Joint Venture’s 2024 sabbatical and research programme in a group photograph with the leadership of SPDC’s Corporate Relations team at the induction ceremony held in Port Harcourt…recently.
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, SPDC, Joint Venture has inducted 27 Nigerian academics and research interns.
The initiative which welcomed eight professors, four senior lecturers, and 15 other participants represents a 35 per cent increase from the previous year.
The participants were drawn from 13 Nigerian universities.
Specifically, the 2024 programme includes participants from a diverse range of universities across Nigeria, including the University of Benin, Rivers State University, University of Ibadan, Niger Delta University, and Ahmadu Bello University.
Others are Bingham University Karu, Federal University Wukari, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, Covenant University, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, University of Uyo, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture.
Held at the company’s headquarters in Port Harcourt, the induction ceremony marked the beginning of a one-year programme focused on knowledge exchange and skill development.
“The research and internship programmes are central to our commitment to supporting higher education in Nigeria,” explained Shell Nigeria’s Head of Corporate Relations, and SPDC Director, Mr. Igo Weli.
He said the participants woukf gain valuable industry experience in fields like biodiversity, petroleum engineering, and environmental impact assessment.
Weli who described the programme as mutually beneficial in nature explained that Shell would access specialised expertise from professors and lecturers, who in turn acquire practical industry knowledge and exposure to cutting-edge technologies.
Despite operational challenges, Mr. Weli reaffirmed Shell’s position as the industry leader in fostering a positive learning environment and empowering people.
Representing the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, Mrs. Bunmi Edith Lawson echoed Mr. Weli’s sentiments.
She highlighted the programme’s significance in scientific exploration, environmental stewardship, and knowledge advancement.
“This is an investment in the next generation of innovators,” she stated, “and a way for us to give back to our stakeholders.”
