Heirs Energies Ltd. and the World Literacy Foundation (WLF) have unveiled the Sun Books Literacy Initiative, a landmark partnership announced on World Literacy Day 2025.
The programme will deliver solar-powered digital learning devices to more than 500 pupils across two primary schools in Rivers State, addressing persistent literacy challenges that continue to affect Nigerian children.
Beneficiaries include students of Central State Primary School, Omuohia-Igwuruta, and Umuebulu Primary School, Umuebulu, each of whom will receive a solar-powered Sun Books tablet preloaded with curriculum-aligned content tailored to local culture and learning needs.
The initiative responds to UNESCO’s findings that one in three Nigerian children is unable to read or write at the level expected for their age, with the problem particularly acute in rural communities.
To guarantee uninterrupted use, solar panels will be installed in the schools, ensuring a reliable power supply for the devices and classrooms. Teachers will also undergo hands-on training designed to build their capacity to integrate digital tools into lesson delivery and enhance long-term learning outcomes.
“As an integrated energy company, we know that renewable and sustainable energy must serve a greater purpose by building stronger, more resilient communities,” said Osa Igiehon, Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies. “This initiative reflects our Africapitalism philosophy, which seeks to create social good while delivering economic value.”
Andrew Kay, Chief Executive Officer of the World Literacy Foundation, stressed the broader significance of the partnership. “By combining renewable energy and digital learning, we are providing children with the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed regardless of geography or circumstance,” he said.
The Sun Books programme represents the first phase of Heirs Energies’ wider Power Schools Initiative, which aims to deploy clean energy solutions and digital infrastructure in schools across its host communities. The project is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on Quality Education (SDG 4) and Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7).
The collaboration stands as a practical demonstration of how private-sector investment and non-profit expertise can work together to create enduring social impact, equipping the next generation for a technology-driven future.
