Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has said that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is the way to go in Nigeria, as it prepares students for a technology-driven society and the future.
Soludo who was represented by his deputy, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, made the declaration at the flag-off of the introduction of STEM education and distribution of science laboratory equipment to public secondary schools in the state.
He said there was the need to embrace STEM education as the world was going digital with science and technology.
“I hold the education sector so dearly; this is why we introduce the free education policy, recruitment of teachers and infrastructure upgrade in our schools to improve our teaching and learning environment.
“However, science is key, whosoever does not embrace science will be left behind. Hence, to develop and compete globally as a state we must introduce STEM education.
“STEM education will sharpen the creative thinking of students, prepare and equip them with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly-changing, technology-driven society.
He noted that “with these laboratory equipment, teaching and learning will be fun, hands-on, accessible, sustainable and relatable; while inculcating critical thinking ability, problem identification and solving skills.”
The governor urged the schools to put the equipment to a good use, impacting positively on the lives of the students as well as prepare them for emerging challenges and be self-reliant.
Also speaking, Dr Uchenna Ezeogu, a representative of GEOGRO Global Resources Ltd, the supplier of the lab equipment, said that many schools in the state had dilapidated or outdated laboratory equipment which has made learning difficult for students.
“We conducted a need assessment of schools and discovered they were lacking in modern laboratory equipment. This was why Governor Soludo approved the supply of these apparatus and reagents.
Dr Ezeogu stated that “these students are lucky to have the equipment and I urge them to utilise them so as to enable them compete globally in the field of science and technology making the state proud in return.”
In her address, chairman, Post Primary Schools Service Commission, Professor Nkechi Ikediugwu, urged the students to stand up for their future and be relevant in the era of science and technology.
Ikediugwu thanked the Governor for his efforts to take the state›s education sector to greater heights.
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