KSCOE Mopa National Conference on Science Education »

The Kogi State College of Education (Technical), Mopa (KSCOE Mopa), has hosted its maiden National Conference on Science Education, bringing together academics, researchers and education stakeholders from across Nigeria to discuss strategies for strengthening science education and promoting sustainable national development.

The conference, organised by the College’s School of Sciences, was held under the theme, “Advancing Science Education for Sustainable Innovation and Citizenship in Nigeria.” Participants examined emerging issues in science education and explored ways to improve teaching, learning and research in the sector.

Declaring the conference open, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Ojo Jones, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Alabi Albert Bamigbade, described science education as essential to building competitive economies, healthier societies and achieving sustainable development.

He commended the College for providing a platform for experts to exchange ideas and urged participants to ensure that recommendations from the conference translate into practical policies, improved classroom practices and innovative learning experiences.

Speaking at the event, the Provost of the College, Prof. M.K. Ibrahim, raised concerns over the growing shortage of skilled craftsmen and technicians, describing the trend as a major challenge.
He said the institution had continued to prioritise technical and practical training to equip students with skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship.

According to him, “Every student should graduate with not only academic knowledge but also practical skills that can make them self-reliant, productive and capable of creating opportunities for themselves.”

Delivering the keynote address titled “Advancing Science Education for Sustainable Innovation and Citizenship,” the Dean of the Faculty of Education at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Prof. Lawrence Achimugu, described science education as a key driver of technological advancement, innovation and responsible citizenship.

He said science education should move beyond teaching scientific facts to developing scientific literacy, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving abilities and evidence-based decision-making.

Prof. Achimugu advocated a shift from rote learning and teacher-centred instruction to practical, inquiry-based and learner-centred teaching methods.

He also identified inadequate funding, poor laboratory facilities, shortages of qualified science teachers, insufficient instructional materials, overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teacher training and weak digital infrastructure as major obstacles affecting science education in Nigeria.

The keynote speaker called for increased investment in science education, continuous professional development for teachers, improved laboratory facilities, stronger STEM programmes and wider adoption of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual laboratories.

He further urged stronger collaboration among educational institutions, industries and research organisations, while advocating improved access to quality science education for girls, learners in rural communities and students with disabilities.

The conference also provided participants with an opportunity to present research findings, discuss emerging challenges and propose practical solutions aimed at improving the quality of science education across the country.