Abuja: The United Support for Science and Mathematics Project (UNSSM-Project), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has urged the Federal Government to invest more in Science and Mathematics education to boost national development. Mr Kelvin Veakpe, Project Facilitator of UNSSM project, made the call at its Innovators Day programme at Coronation Preparatory Academy, Kuje, Kuje Area Council, FCT, Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Innovators Day featured the award of ambassadorial honours in Mathematics to 104 students. Veakpe stated that the Mathematics Ambassadors were selected from schools across the FCT, aiming to demystify mathematics and inspire a new generation of innovators through strategic mentorship and competition. While the UNSSM project and similar organisations are promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Veakpe emphasized the need for government involvement in driving such programmes.
Veakpe highlighted the importance of focusing more on sciences, as life itself revolves around them. He expressed that many national challenges stem from a lack of emphasis on calculation, which involves sciences and mathematics. He urged the government to provide opportunities for children to showcase their talents and skills through such programmes.
The programme includes assessing students with school-based tests and an inter-school contest, with top performers being rewarded with N2.5 million among other prizes. Students who become ambassadors can benefit from a free six-week summer training on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills such as coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and website design. Veakpe mentioned that celebrating ambassadors during Innovators Day motivates both learners and their peers to aspire higher.
Mr James Arlloo, Head of Coronation Preparatory Academy School, reinforced that no nation could develop without the application of science, adding that it broadens the learning scope of children. He criticized governments that do not encourage schools towards ICT or sciences, noting it does more harm than good to the nation. Arlloo also urged the government to provide tools supporting STEM learning in both government and private schools.
Omolola Olorunfemi, a Grade 3 pupil, expressed happiness at becoming a Mathematics ambassador and committed to putting more effort into her studies, especially in Mathematics. Mrs Agnes Udoh, a parent, stated her support for her child’s success, encouraging other parents to promote Mathematics learning.
The UNSSM Project is dedicated to promoting Science and Mathematics education, inspiring young minds through competitions, mentorship programmes, and STEM initiatives to foster innovation and critical thinking.