Education experts have called for a shift in science education towards innovation, practical skills and entrepreneurship to better prepare students for the rapidly changing world of work.
The experts made the call at the opening of the 4th National Conference of the School of Science Education, Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, Kano.
The conference, themed “Transforming Science Education through Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the 21st Century Learning Environment,” brought together educationists, researchers, academics and other stakeholders to explore ways of strengthening science education through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Delivering the keynote address, the Vice-Chancellor of KHAIRUN University, Kano, Professor Abdurrashid Garba, said educational institutions must prepare students not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities for themselves and others.
Garba noted that rapid technological advancement had transformed the world of work, making it necessary for educational institutions to embrace approaches that promote creativity, digital literacy, research, practical experimentation and entrepreneurial thinking.
He described science education as a strong foundation for innovation because it encourages curiosity, critical thinking, experimentation and problem-solving.
The Vice-Chancellor also called for stronger collaboration among educational institutions, industries, researchers and entrepreneurs to ensure that scientific knowledge is translated into practical solutions and products capable of improving lives.
Earlier, the Dean of the School of Science Education, Dr Lawan Yakubu, described the conference theme as timely, particularly as education systems face the challenge of producing graduates capable of adapting to rapid technological and socio-economic changes.
Yakubu said science education should go beyond classroom instruction and examination success by equipping learners with practical knowledge, creativity, problem-solving abilities and entrepreneurial skills.
He noted that innovation and entrepreneurship could help transform scientific knowledge into solutions to societal challenges while creating pathways for employment and self-reliance.
Representing the Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Education, Haladu Muhammad, described the conference theme as relevant to the educational needs of the 21st century.
Muhammad highlighted the state government’s efforts to improve access to quality education, upgrade educational infrastructure, support teachers and strengthen human capital development.
He stressed the importance of science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship in equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for self-reliance and meaningful contributions to the development of Kano State and Nigeria.
Suggested photo caption: Education experts and stakeholders at the 4th National Conference of the School of Science Education, Sa’adatu Rimi College of Education, Kumbotso, Kano.
