The Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Science and Technology. Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, has said that the Ministry will continue to support development of young Nigerians, build adequate skills and competence that will make them relevant in the dynamic Science Technology and Innovation eco system for economic development of the nation. Mrs. Esuabana made this statement at the event of presenting the results of the 9th Edition of the 774 Young Nigerian Scientist Presidential Award (774 YONSPA) today, in Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary who was represented by the Director Human Resource Department Mallam Hassan Baba Ibrahim further said that the 774 Young Nigerian Scientist Presidential Award (774 YONSPA) is designed to spur students to proffer solutions to practical problems that will enhance socio economic development of the country.
Esuabana also noted that the programme is organized by the Ministry annually across the 36 State of the federation through completive examination for Secondary Schools, adding that the objective is to produce a pool of dedicated scientists and technologists with the capacity to compete internationally.
She explained that the Ministry is focused on providing an enabling environment for the development of Science, Technology and Innovative ideas that will boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The Permanent Secretary stated that the Ministry attaches great importance to this event and recognizes first, second and third position with a presidential hand shake adding that they will also receive cash and scholarship award to further their studies in any Nigeria University of their choice to enable them contribute to the growth and development of the nation.
Speaking earlier, the Director, Science and Technology Promotion Department (STP), Mr. Ronald Ukpong said that the programme was created by the Ministry to encourage our youths to be interested and fashion their study careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, adding that the good gesture covers the 774 Local Government Areas of the Federation where students compete in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics.
He further said that no country will attain true greatness without the application of Innovation, Science and Technology. He therefore enjoined the youths to study hard in their chosen careers and ensure that Nigeria is recognized among the international community in the science sector.
Earlier, the Chief Examiner of the Programme, Professor Uno-Uno commended the students for their exceptional performance in this year’s exercise compared to the previous years.
He then, urged the teachers to deploy new teaching techniques that will better that will enable the students understand the subjects better and easily.
Signed
Pauline Sule, (Mrs) anipr
Head (Information & PRU)
