STEM: CATCH THEM YOUNG FOR SCIENCE

Tae Yoo once said that “together, we have the power to inspire, connect, and deliver on new opportunities and rich experiences that can open doors to innovation and progress while growing global economies and increasing well-being. This was the goal at the just concluded Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) outreach programme organized by the Michael and Cecilia Ibru University (MCIU) in collaboration with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Michael and Cecilia Foundation (MCF), Michael and Cecilia Foundation Demonstration Schools (MCFDS), and Centre for Atmospheric Research (CAR).
The STEM outreach programme with the Theme “Catch Them Young for Science” to drive and educate students on the impact of science in the world. It was interactive, engaging and motivating on the part of the students and participants. Over a hundred and fifty-nine (159) students and fourteen (14) teachers from over fifteen (15) schools were in attendance.
The one-day Outreach programme started at 10:20 am on Wednesday, 26th January 2022 at the Power of Faith building (MCIU). Declaring the event open the Visitor and Chancellor, Dr Cecilia Ibru, OFR giving her welcome address said the evolution of education has had one focal goal which is to nurture the minds of future generations. We want our children to start thinking of innovations and bringing up creative ideas

The first speaker, Prof. Ibiyinka Fuwape gave a brief science talk to the young scholars on the importance of having a science-based mindset and ensuring that they become innovators and creative individuals as they grow up. Whatever you are doing, you must do it well, so that you can be a star and be a solution to the myriads of problems we are facing in Nigeria. STEM field encourages critical thinking and innovation.
Prof. Babatunde Rabiu, Director/CEO CAR-NASRDA Delivered the second lecture on science talk 2. He talked about leveraging technology and the importance of STEM to the world. We have been told that to do science means to work as a team.
The highlight of the conference was the questions and answers session as students and teachers had the opportunity to ask different questions and share ideas.
The participants (students) were involved in the mini-workshop which was tagged “Introduction into the 4th Industrial Revolution” by the country team leader, Mr Moses Adebayo Ogunranti. During the workshop, the students were thrilled with the practical demonstration of internet of things technologies such as remote-controlled light bulbs and musical sounds from bananas, oranges, and water. After the workshops, the students were split into groups for a better understanding of scientific phenomena. In one group, the students were able to view the sun with the aid of polarized sunglasses. Demonstrations of dark activated light bulbs were carried out in a group. In another group, technologies such as drones, 3D printing, and microcontrollers were displayed.
After the mini-workshop, certificates of participation were presented to participants (dignitaries and schools). Closing Prayer and School Anthem were sung in quick succession.
The event was interactive, engaging and exciting for the children.