The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye has said that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is the gate way to socio-economic development of any nation.
Mrs. Esuabana who was represented by overseeing Director Science, Technology and Promotion (STP) Dr. Victor Fadipe at the 1st Science Fair and Exhibition of Federal Capital College of Education, School of Sciences Zuba, today in Abuja.
She further said that the choice of the theme Innovation: A quest to survive in a challenging world is apt. Saying, nations that fail to embrace science, technology and innovation are inevitably left behind.
The Permanent Secretary pointed out that research and development is the bedrock that gives rise to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) therefore we must invest in research and development as well as inculcate the habit of creativity as a way to have a technology that can sustain and build a valuable economy for the nation.
She commended the school authority for organizing the exhibition as that will encourage innovators to push the boundaries of creativity, develop home-grown solutions and pursue commercialization, also pledging the Ministry’s support.
Speaking, the Chairman, House Committee on Colleges of Education, Hon. Adamu Tanko said that investing in Science, Technology and Innovation is necessary for the economic growth of any nation, Nigeria inclusive. Adding that no country has ever developed without the full deployment of technological apparatus to all sectors of the economy.
Earlier, the Provost, FCT College of Education, Zuba, Dr. Sule Mundi, said that everything revolves around Innovation, Science and Technology and what is being showcased today is transformation of theory to products.
Earlier, the Dean, School of Sciences of the College, Dr. Lauratu Kurawa said that the world is faced with many challenges, ranging from environmental degradation, hunger, poor electricity, water supply, unemployment and high cost of living, despite all these challenges, Nigeria is committed to Innovation, Science and Technology as a way to alleviate hundred millions of people out of poverty.
At the event, the Permanent Secretary bagged the award of Profound Recognition of her Outstanding Leadership and Unwavering Commitment to Advancing Science, Technology and Innovation in Nigeria and Miss Joy Ezekiel was recognized and celebrated as an Ambassador for Development of Girl Child in Innovation, Science and Technology.
The Exhibition produced three best Departments of the College and Secondary Schools as follows:
FCT College of Education Category, Biology Department as the first position in Solar Seed Planter and Fertilizer Spray innovation, Department of Computer Science in Solar Generator came second and Physics Department came third in Solar Panel Evaporator.
While in the Secondary School Category, Government Science and Technical College Garki came first in Flexible Sanitary Pads, Government Science and Technical College Kwali came second in Insect Terminator innovation while Government Science and Technical Secondary School Pyakassa came third in Indicator Hibiscus Flower innovation.
Signed
Pauline Sule (Mrs.) anipr
Head (Press & PRU)
