The Interview Editors
Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, says the Federal Government is investing in artificial intelligence (AI) academy, cassava value chain development and programmes for youths and innovators.
The minister disclosed this at the 2024 World Science Day Celebration in Abuja on Monday.
He said that through these initiatives, the government was harnessing science as a means of building a bright future for the country.
He said the theme of the celebration, “Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering the Future,” highlighted the need for global collaboration to addressing challenges like pandemics and food security.
Nnaji recalled that Covid-19 was a reminder that proactive scientific collaboration was essential.
He said the ministry would drive partnerships across sectors such as health, energy and robotics, adding that with over 22 international collaborations, there were ongoing advances in space technology among others.
According to him, these were bringing scholarships and resources to strengthen the nation’s science, technology and innovation.
He noted that the exhibitions and quiz competitions at the 2024 World Science Day would inspire students in science.
Nnaji expressed the ministry’s dedication to advancing research, aligning Nigeria’s values with global scientific and technological goals, and strengthening Nigeria’s roles in international science, technology and innovation methods.
Mrs Esuabana Nko-Asanye, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, said the annual event underscored the significance of science in everyday life, while creating a brighter future.
According to her, the objectives of the world science day include strengthening public awareness on the role of science for peaceful and sustainable societies.
She said it also aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by scientists and raise support for the scientific endeavors.
The permanent secretary said the gathering was to celebrate the impact of science to the world, adding that the theme emphasised the limitless potentials of science to transform the world.
“The scientific achievements, innovations and advancements are testaments of great efforts of our scientists, researchers and innovators,’’ she said.
Ms Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, emphasised on the essence of science to peace building.
According to her, science offers practical, sustainable solutions to contemporary global challenges.
“By seeking responses to climate crises, epidemics and resource shortages, science helps to mitigate the root causes of many conflicts,’’ she said.
Azoulay, who was represented by Dr Enang Moma, Head of Science office, UNESCO, Abuja, called for urgent increase in funding for research in a fast-changing world.
She said this would ensure everyone’s access to quality scientific education.
High point of the event was a paper presentation titled “Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering the Future” by Prof. Uno Uno, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Federal University of Technology, Minna.
There was also presentation of awards and certificates of excellence to participating schools who emerged winners in the quiz competition.
