DIRECTOR, Technology and Science Education, Federal Ministry of Education (FME), Dr. Rosetta Isiavwe, says the Federal Government is committed to giving science and technical education a fresh boost.
Speaking at the 2015 speech and prize-giving ceremony/valedictory service of Federal Science and Technical College (FSTC), Yaba, Lagos, in which a total of 625 graduating students received certificates and prizes for suuccessful completion of their various programmes, Isiavwe said the fresh boost stems from the ministry’s realisation of the overriding role of science and technical education in national development.
She said many developed nations were able to achieve lofty developmental and economic goals because they placed emphasis on science and technical education.
Her words, “The implementation of the National Policy on Education as it concerns science, technical and vocational education has been recording tremendous growth. In furtherance of this, the ministry carefully selected the school management team to give science and technical education in the country a fresh boost and move it to greater heights.
“The ministry as a policy making body is aware that no country can achieve its developmental goals and economic diversification without scientific, engineering and technological capacity. Presently, Nigeria depends on researches made by other countries, and this practice is not good. It is high time we looked inward and develop what we have, if Nigeria is to be recognised among the world powers.”
She commended the principal of the school, Rev. Chris Ugorji, for the academic, physical and infrastructural transformation that has taken place in the school since he assumed duty, urging the graduands to put to good use, all they have been taught.
Director of Basic and Secondary Education, FME, Mr. Chike Uwaezuoke, in his remarks stated that owing to the importance of technical education, there was the compelling need to ensure that all states have at least one technical school.
He described the teaching of science, technical and vocational education in about 21 states of the country as a strong wind of positive change, which must be expanded across the 36 states of the federation.
To the graduands, he said, “Each of you has received well-rounded education, be it in the humanities, science, technical or business. You have also been exposed to entrepreneurial studies, which make you complete as science and technical college graduates. I urge you not to forget all you have learnt, as it will serve you well in the future. Try to solve the problems of society in whatever fields you choose to specialise.”
Ugorji in his 24-page address appealed to appropriate authorities to help improve learning facilities in the college to international standard.
“In spite of the numerous achievements, the college presently is in dire need of more classroom accommodation and furniture; well furnished staff room and offices; staff quarters; replacement of technical equipment in the workshop and workshop personnel.
