Doris Ewoh, Enugu
Rangers International Football Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Science Technical Vocational School Management Board (STVSMB), Enugu, to implement a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Sports Intervention Initiative aimed at promoting character development and structured learning beyond the classroom.
The agreement was formalized on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Rangers International Football Club Boardroom, Antelope Building, Abakaliki Road, GRA, Enugu.
Speaking on behalf of the Foundation’s Managing Director, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, the Executive Secretary of Rangers, Barr. Alexander Ugochukwu Egbo, described the MoU as a commitment to direction, vision, and intentional investment in the future of young people.
He further explained the role of football as a tool for Social Emotional Learning, helping young people develop emotional intelligence, set and achieve positive goals, show empathy and respect for others, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions.
“Talent alone is not enough. Skills without emotional intelligence can falter. Ability without discipline can fade. That is why this SEL/Sports Intervention Initiative is timely and necessary,” he said.
Egbo described the partnership as a strategic convergence of education and sports development that will challenge, inspire, and prepare students not just for competition but for life. He noted that while STVSMB provides the academic structure and educational reach, the Rangers Foundation contributes sporting expertise, mentorship, and value driven engagement.
Chairman of STVSMB, Dr. Amaka Stephanie Ngene, said the MoU represents a bold step toward bridging the gap between the workshop and the football pitch.
“This MoU between STVSMB and Rangers Foundation marks a significant milestone in our mission to develop what we call a complete and well-rounded student,
“Through this partnership, we are expanding our classrooms beyond hammers, machines, and circuits to intentionally cultivate resilience, the ability to bounce back from both technical challenges and personal setbacks.” she said
Also speaking, Chairman of Rangers Foundation, Ebere Amaraizu, said the agreement underscores the need to nurture a wholesome individual before focusing on career paths.
He highlighted that the initiative promotes a holistic lifestyle, character development, academic support, resourcefulness, innovation, and critical thinking, helping participants resist peer pressure and negative influences, while also focusing on emotional and physical well-being, empathy, unity, and leveraging the strengths of others.
Amaraizu added that students will not be limited to football alone, as other sports will be introduced to give them the freedom to make choices, with teachers also benefiting from training in classroom management to better understand and support students.
He said the initiative will be integrated into the school curriculum and serve as a model for other schools.