CHILDREN’S DAY: NGO Organises Children STEM Summit, Calls for Hands-on Tools
Maryam Aminu
In a world that is becoming increasingly complex, where success is driven not only by what you know but also by what you can do with your knowledge, it is important for youths to be equipped with skills to solve tough problems affecting their societies.
In commemoration of the 2024 International Children’s Day, the High Tech Centre for Nigeria Women and Youths organised Children ICT/STEM Summit and Grand Finale of Schools Hachathon to spark creativity among young people in our today’s society.
Speaking during the summit, the CEO, High Tech Centre for Nigeria Women and Youths, Dr Wunmi Hassan stated that the purpose of the summit was to stimulate students’ interest, curiosity and desire to explore the world they live in
She added that it was to also prepare the next generation of disruptors and cultivating a mindset that fosters innovation.
Dr Hassan who stated that Science subjects are not supposed to be fully theoretical but hands on, called on the government and philanthropists to supply science equipments to science schools to support Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in Nigeria.
She added that the equipment will support the students to boost their knowledge in Science, Technology and Innovation.
“Hands-on gadgets are great ways for students to reinforce their learning and creativity while learning about technology that will be the future norm.”
She added that adequate materials for STEM education will help prepare students for the workforce and equips them with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly-changing, technology-driven society.
Earlier, the leader Ignite world wide in Nigeria, Abdurrahim Abdulhakim said the magic of STEM often lies in the hands-on experience.
“Organizing interactive experiments and activities that allow students to explore scientific concepts and principles learnt fosters a deep understanding of STEM subjects.” He said
Abdulhakim who lamented on the failure of the government to provide basic tools needed for the teaching and learning of STEM subjects implored stakeholders to improve the country’s quality of education by fixing the educational system through prioritising STEM in schools
Students at the summits called on the government and necessary bodies for the provision of learning materials and condusive learning environment to enhance better knowledge of the STEM subjects
At the summit, students presented designed prototype projects in STEM that are capable of solving some of society’s problem if perfected and commercialised
