By Dipo Olowookere
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has moved a step further in strengthening science education in the state with the establishment of a Mobile Science Academy.
Recently, the state government sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BASF West Africa to formalise their mutual commitment to the creation of the academy.
It was learnt that the move was to further promote science education in the state because the Science and Technology Strategy for Lagos State (2016–2019) recognises Science, Research and Innovation as priority programmes under the Mega City Programme.
At the signing ceremony, Governor Ambode stressed the need for the Mobile Academy to achieve the vision of making Lagos a model state through the application of innovative Science and Technology solutions in solving problems thereby making a greater impact in the governance of the state.
Mr Ambode, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluranti Adebule, noted that the Mobile Science Academy will bridge the gap in the current state of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education by providing mobile science facilities to enable students to acquire practical knowledge and hands-on experience of the science theories they are taught in school.
In his speech, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr Olufemi Odubiyi, pointed out that the establishment of the academy was a commitment to the partnership between the two parties.
On his part, Head of Market Area Africa at BASF West Africa Ltd, Mr Michael Gotsche, said both parties were committed to targeted development of scientific outreach and educational initiatives in Lagos State.
He added that Lagos State government and BASF West Africa Ltd have a shared interest in scientific progress and education.
