06/08/2026
KSCOE (T), Mopa Holds Maiden National Conference on Science Education
The Kogi State College of Education (Technical), Mopa, under the leadership of its Provost, Prof. M.K. Ibrahim, has recorded another significant academic milestone with the successful hosting of its maiden National Conference on Science Education.
The conference brought together scholars, researchers, educationists and other stakeholders from across the country to deliberate on contemporary issues and the future of science education in Nigeria.
The conference, organised by the School of Sciences of the College, was held on the theme, “Advancing Science Education for Sustainable Innovation and Citizenship in Nigeria.”
Declaring the conference open, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Ojo Jones, FCIB, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Alabi Albert Bamigbade, commended the College and the organisers for providing a platform for experts to exchange ideas and contribute to the advancement of science education in the country.
The Commissioner described science education as a foundation for building competitive economies, healthier societies and achieving sustainable development. He stressed the need to equip learners with the knowledge and skills required to respond to the demands of a rapidly changing world. He also urged participants to ensure that the outcomes of the conference translated into actionable policies, improved classroom practices and innovative learning experiences.
Speaking at the conference, the Provost, Prof. M.K. Ibrahim, expressed concern over the growing shortage of skilled craftsmen and technicians in the society, describing the situation as worrisome. He noted that the College has continued to invest heavily in technical and practical training to equip students with relevant skills for the world of work.
Prof. Ibrahim stressed that 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. He said this approach is part of the College’s commitment to producing graduates who can contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.
Delivering the keynote address titled “Advancing Science Education for Sustainable Innovation and Citizenship,” the Dean, Faculty of Education, Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Prof. Lawrence Achimugu, described science education as a critical driver of sustainable development, technological advancement, innovation and responsible citizenship.
Prof. Achimugu stressed that science education must go beyond teaching scientific facts to developing scientific literacy, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills and evidence-based decision-making. He called for a shift from rote memorisation and teacher-centred instruction to practical, inquiry-based and learner-centred approaches.
The keynote speaker identified poor funding, inadequate infrastructure and laboratory facilities, shortage of qualified science teachers, insufficient instructional materials, overcrowded classrooms, inadequate teacher training and poor digital infrastructure as some of the major challenges confronting science education in Nigeria.
He advocated increased investment in science education, continuous professional development for teachers, better-equipped laboratories, stronger STEM programmes and greater integration of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual laboratories. He also called for stronger partnerships among educational institutions, industries and research organisations, as well as improved access to quality science education for girls, rural learners and students with disabilities.
The conference provided an opportunity for scholars and education stakeholders to share research findings, examine emerging challenges and explore practical solutions capable of strengthening science education and improving the quality of teaching and learning in Nigeria.
Yunusa Onalo
Head, Information and Protocol Unit