The United Support for Science and Mathematics Project (UNSSM-Project), a non-governmental organisation, has called on the Federal Government to increase investment in science and mathematics education to accelerate national development.
Mr Kelvin Veakpe, Project Facilitator of the UNSSM Project, made the appeal on Monday during the organisation’s Innovators Day programme, held at Coronation Preparatory Academy in Kuje, Abuja.
The event saw 104 students honoured with Mathematics Ambassador awards, selected from various schools across the Federal Capital Territory.
Veakpe explained that the initiative was designed to demystify mathematics and ignite innovation among young learners through mentorship and competitive activities.
“The government should focus more on sciences because our life itself revolves around sciences,” he said.
“I think it is very important for the government to look into this because some of the challenges we are having today as a nation are because we are not calculating enough. When you are talking about calculation, it entails sciences and mathematics.”
“The government should key into this type of programme and provide avenues for children to showcase their talents and skills,” he added.
The project facilitator noted that the programme assessed students through school-based tests and an inter-school competition, where top performers could win up to ₦2.5 million and other prizes.
He also stated that the recognised Mathematics Ambassadors would benefit from a six-week summer training in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), covering areas such as coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and website design.
“We celebrate our ambassadors on the assembly ground in the presence of their parents during what we call the Innovators Day. This motivates both the learners and their peers to aspire higher,” he said.
Also Read: Zulum Offers Full Scholarship to Female Indigenes Scoring 250+ in UTME
Speaking at the event, Mr James Arlloo, Head of Coronation Preparatory Academy, said the development of any nation is closely linked to the advancement of science.
“A government that does not encourage schools towards ICT or sciences is doing more harm than good to the nation,” Arlloo stated.
He also urged the government to provide necessary tools to support the teaching and learning of STEM subjects in both public and private schools.
Omolola Olorunfemi, a Grade 3 pupil who was honoured as a Mathematics Ambassador, expressed her excitement and pledged to work harder, especially in mathematics, to achieve greater recognition.
Omolola Olorunfemi (middle) receiving her certificate
of recognition as mathematics Ambassador
Mrs Agnes Udoh, a parent, pledged her continued support for her daughter’s academic growth.
“I will support my child physically, mentally and in any way I can to ensure she succeeds more in the future,” she said, while encouraging other parents to help their children embrace mathematics.
The UNSSM Project remains committed to fostering innovation and critical thinking among Nigerian youths by promoting science and mathematics through competitions, mentorship, and STEM-focused initiatives.
