Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has said that the future of every nation rests on the shoulders of the youth, hence it is the duty of the Government to create an enabling environment for them to realize their potentials through the application of Science, Technology and Innovation.
According to the Minister, Nigeria’s greatest asset is human capital which is embedded in her youths who make up tens of millions of talented persons constantly striving towards the economic development of the country.
Nnaji who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs.Esuabana Nko- Asanye said this during the 2024 edition of the 774 Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award (774-YONSPA) held today in Abuja.
The Minister further stated that the 774 YONSPA is a program designed by the Ministry to inspire students to study science subjects and pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, adding that the programme is based on the Ministry’s “Catch them young” to develop young Nigerians in science.
Nnaji also said that science is important as it affects every aspects of humanity and capable of improving the standard of living, guarantees economic growth and development of any nation.
To this end, the Minister, enjoined all stakeholders to encourage students by providing incentives that will spur them to pursue careers in science.
The Minister, while presenting Certificates to the three best students promised that cash awards and presidential handshake will be given to the winners at the opening ceremony of the “Techno Expo” holding from 11th, to 15th March, 2024 in Abuja.
The result of the National Final Examination for the 774 YONSPA conducted in Abuja is as follows:
Abdul Rahman Fadlullahi from Lagos State took first position, Atigah Oluwaferanmi from Ogun State came second in the overall best, while Janelle Udeme Akpan from the Federal Capital Territory also won second position in the overall best.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Esuabana Nko- Asanye said that the programme was created by the Ministry to encourage our youths to be interested and study careers in STEM education, adding that the good gesture covers 774 local Government of the Federation and Federal level, where students compete in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and physics.
She further stated that no country will attain true greatness without the application of innovation, Science and technology, and then, enjoined the youths to study hard in their chosen careers so as to ensure that Nigeria is recognized among the International community in the Science Sector.
Speaking, the Chief Examiner of the Programme, Professor Uno-Uno commended the students for their exceptional performance this year as compared to the previous years. He then, admonished the teachers to focus more on applied science and provide technics that will enable the students to understand the subjects easily.
Signed
Atuora Obed .O.
DD: (P&PR)
FMIST
