SRCOE National Conference: Experts Seek Innovation-Driven Science Education

Education experts have called for a major shift in science education towards innovation, practical skills and entrepreneurship, saying the approach is necessary to prepare students for a rapidly changing world of work.

This was contained in a statement signed by Amina Abdul-Azeez Abba, Director, Public Relations, Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, and made available to ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ on Wednesday.

The experts made the call at the opening of the 4th National Conference of the School of Science Education, Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, held on Tuesday.

The conference, themed “Transforming Science Education through Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the 21st Century Learning Environment,” brought together educationists, researchers, academics and other stakeholders to deliberate on ways of strengthening science education through innovation and entrepreneurship.

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In his keynote address, the Vice-Chancellor of KHAIRUN University, Kano, Professor Abdurrashid Garba, said educational institutions must prepare students not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities for themselves and others.

Garba said rapid technological advancement had transformed the world of work, making it necessary for institutions to adopt approaches that promote creativity, digital literacy, research, practical experimentation and entrepreneurial thinking.

He described science education as a strong foundation for innovation because it encourages curiosity, critical thinking, experimentation and problem-solving.

The Vice-Chancellor called for stronger collaboration among educational institutions, industries, researchers and entrepreneurs to ensure that scientific knowledge was translated into practical solutions and products capable of improving lives.

He also advocated the integration of entrepreneurship into science education to equip learners with skills to become job creators and contribute to economic growth and sustainable development.

Earlier, the Dean, School of Science Education, Dr Lawan Yakubu, said the conference theme was timely given the need for education systems to produce graduates capable of adapting to rapid technological and socioeconomic changes.

Yakubu said science education should go beyond classroom instruction and examination success by equipping learners with practical knowledge, creativity, problem-solving abilities and entrepreneurial skills.

He said innovation and entrepreneurship could help transform scientific knowledge into solutions to societal challenges while promoting employment and self-reliance.

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The Chairman of the occasion and Provost, Federal College of Education (Technical), Bichi, Dr Bashir Sabo Abubakar, commended the organisers and stressed the need for educational institutions to embrace innovation and skills-based learning.

Representing the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Education, Haladu Muhammad, described the conference theme as relevant to the educational needs of the 21st century.

Muhammad highlighted the state government’s efforts to improve access to quality education, upgrade educational infrastructure, support teachers and strengthen human capital development.

He stressed the importance of science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship in equipping students with knowledge and practical skills for self-reliance and meaningful contributions to the development of Kano State and Nigeria.

He subsequently declared the conference open.

The conference featured two lead papers presented by Professor Muhammad Abdullahi of the Department of Science and Technology Education, Bayero University, Kano, and Associate Professor Sa’adatu Shehu Bala of the Department of Science and Technology, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil.

Awards were also presented to distinguished personalities in recognition of their contributions and support to education.

In his vote of thanks, the Chief Host and Provost of Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, Dr Kabir Ahmed Gwarzo, appreciated the dignitaries, presenters, participants and organisers for their contributions to the success of the conference.

Gwarzo reaffirmed the college’s commitment to advancing quality science education while promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development among students.