Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny Trains Students in Soap and Shampoo Production

The Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny has organized a hands-on entrepreneurship training aimed at equipping students with practical skills in soap and shampoo production.

The programme, according to Anthony Ogbe, Senior Assistant Registrar (MCAI) and Public Relations Officer of the institution, is designed to promote self-reliance, innovation, and sustainable development through skill acquisition.

The training introduced participants to both homemade and commercial approaches to soap and shampoo making. On the domestic side, students were guided through simple methods such as melt-and-pour soap production enhanced with essential oils and natural additives, as well as shampoo preparation using aloe vera, glycerin, and liquid Castille soap.

For industrial-scale production, the sessions emphasized the use of chemical formulations with surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) for effective cleansing, stabilizers such as STPP for consistency, and preservatives for product durability. Other aspects covered included the application of moisturizers, foaming agents, thickeners, fragrances, and pH adjustment to ensure high-quality, market-ready products.

Practical demonstrations reinforced the theoretical lessons as students learned step-by-step procedures for combining base ingredients, integrating conditioning agents, and finishing products with colorants and fragrances.

Ogbe stated that the training reflects the polytechnic’s commitment to preparing its students with entrepreneurial competencies that go beyond the classroom. He stressed that by promoting skills in cosmetology and related ventures, the institution continues to provide pathways for economic empowerment and community growth.