YOUTHVILLE: Yobe to host TReND Science Fest on Monday

The second edition of TReND Science Festival aimed at inspiring the future generation of scientists by showcasing science, its relevance to lives, environment and development, will hold next Monday in Damaturu, Yobe state. This edition which will have 25 schools participating would last till November 21, 2017 and will feature teachers’ workshop, quiz competition, and […]

The second edition of TReND Science Festival aimed at inspiring the future generation of scientists by showcasing science, its relevance to lives, environment and development, will hold next Monday in Damaturu, Yobe state.

This edition which will have 25 schools participating would last till November 21, 2017 and will feature teachers’ workshop, quiz competition, and science student innovation contest. Other activities will include a panel discussion with top Nigerian scientists and medical practitioners, exhibition by scientists, and science career lecture.

The lead organiser, a Neuroscientist, Dr Mahmoud Bukar Maina said the event has among its central objectives enhancing public understanding of science and also improving discussion between scientists and decision makers.

Maina told YOUTHVILLE in Abuja that there is a high level of cultural and religious misconception about science in Nigeria, especially in Northern Nigeria.”

He explained that majority of Ni g e r i a n s do not Understand t h e importance of science to their lives and society, and this is because       “ S c i e n c e funding is inadequate partly due to d i s c o n n e c t between local scientists and d e c i s i o n – makers.”

He said: “In schools, many science teachers do not employ innovative teaching approaches and so, many students never develop a passion for science. Students also lack science mentors, contributing to poor understanding of career path.”