Abuja: Space experts and enthusiasts have advocated for the demystification of space concepts among citizens to harness its potential. The experts made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the ongoing 3rd International Space Ungana conference themed ‘Advancing the African Space Agenda: Space Research and Innovation’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized to discuss space exploration and development in Africa. Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), urged the development of indigenous space systems that would elevate African countries in space exploration. Represented by Dr. Olatunbosun Yusuf, Director of Engineering and Space Systems, Adepoju noted that with capacity development and better collaborations, Africa could achieve significant progress in space development.
Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited, highlighted the agency’s SpaceTech Innovation and Accelerator program, which provides training and funding for space-driven startups. She emphasized that the training would enable participants to address challenges using satellite technology, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things. Simplifying space technology, she added, would help citizens understand its concepts and benefits.
Dr. Claire Nelson, Chief Ideation Leader at Future Forum, advocated for a change in mindset among African nations and leveraging space technology to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Nelson pointed out that space technology has the potential to unify and foster development, especially in areas like mapping, telemedicine, and digital financial services. She emphasized the importance of self-reliance and utilizing African expertise that is often employed abroad.
Dr. Olugbenga Olumodimu, an associate professor of Space Science at the University of Portsmouth, UK, urged Nigeria to simplify space technology issues and make them appealing to children and youths. He stressed the need for outreach programs in schools to explain the concept of space to young students, making it easier for them to see the possibilities and opportunities in the field.
