The National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has commissioned a model chemistry laboratory equipment and chemicals at the Government Science Secondary School Uke, Nasarawa State.
The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to promote science and technology education in the country.
During the commissioning ceremony, NOTAP’s director-general, Dr. DanAzumi Ibrahim emphasised the importance of practical science and technology education for young learners.
He stated that no country can develop without science, technology and innovation. Therefore, it is crucial to equip Nigerian science secondary schools with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment to facilitate practical teaching and learning from a young age.
Ibrahim highlighted NOTAP’s responsibility to promote the development of locally motivated technologies and bridge the gap between academia and industry. He pointed out that the establishment of intellectual property and technology transfer offices (IPTTOs) in some Nigerian knowledge institutions was a collaborative effort with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to encourage demand-driven research.
The DG also called for more budgetary allocation to NOTAP to ensure that its numerous impactful projects are implemented. He encouraged state governments and private establishments to support the project of equipping Nigerian secondary schools with model laboratory equipment to foster the growth of science, technology, and innovation in the country.
The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Education, Hajia Fati Jimeta represented by the director of schools in the ministry, Mallam Abubakar Kana, expressed appreciation to NOTAP for donating educational facilities to the school.
She commended the state governor for his enthusiasm towards science and technology education and encouraged NOTAP to continue its good work in other government facilities across the country.
The principal of the school, Musa Hassan expressed his delight at the government’s gesture through NOTAP. He appreciated the equipment and prayed for more wisdom in the management of NOTAP to undertake more projects.
A statement by the agency’s assistant chief information officer, Raymond Ogbu, stated that in conclusion, NOTAP’s initiative to equip Nigerian Science Secondary Schools with modern laboratory equipment and chemicals is a commendable effort to promote practical science and technology education. Such initiatives are crucial in bridging the gap between academia and industry, promoting demand-driven research, and fostering the growth of science, technology and innovation in the country.
