The Ogun State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening the education sector through the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, as well as digital learning initiatives aimed at preparing students for the future.
The State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, made this known while delivering a keynote address at a STEM education programme themed, “Building a Future Ready STEM Ecosystem in Nigeria,” organised by the Rockcity Center for Media and Leadership Development.
Salako-Oyedele explained that the state government remains focused on improving the quality of education in line with its development agenda, noting that technology driven learning has become necessary in a rapidly evolving global environment.
She said the government was encouraging science education by providing infrastructure that would enable both learners and teachers to operate in conducive environments capable of improving learning outcomes.
According to her, the state is also strengthening technical and vocational education across its institutions to equip young people with the skills required to compete favourably with their peers around the world.
Salako-Oyedele added that as population continues to grow, there would always be increasing demand for infrastructure and services.
“As population grows, there will always be the need for new homes, cars, facilities, more roads and even better healthcare. Those in STEM professions are better equipped to develop technologies that will help deliver these solutions faster and at lower cost,” she said.
The deputy governor commended the organisers of the programme and urged participants, particularly students, to take STEM education seriously.
She said, “STEM education is the foundation for every innovation that man can think of. When you choose it as a field of study or profession, you are not only doing it for yourself but also for your family, your community and your country.”
Also speaking, the Saka Matemilola encouraged students to embrace STEM, noting that the digital age requires strong knowledge of science and technology across virtually every career path.
He added that stakeholders should continue to motivate young people to develop interest and passion for science related disciplines.
In a lecture titled “Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Career Pathways in STEM,” the Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Lagos, Titilola Aderonke, said the development of STEM education requires collaboration among students, traditional institutions, government, investors and other stakeholders.
She advised students not to be afraid of failure but to seek mentorship and explore opportunities for volunteering and learning.
“Innovation begins with one idea,” she said, adding that teachers must continue to nurture curiosity, critical thinking and problem solving skills among students.
Aderonke also called on policy makers and traditional institutions to support technology driven initiatives and policies that would encourage young people to embrace STEM education.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rockcity Center for Media and Leadership Development and Rockcity FM, Niran Malaolu, said the programme was organised to inspire the younger generation to develop interest in STEM disciplines.
He noted that with the pace of global technological advancement, science, technology, engineering and mathematics have become critical to national development.
