The Patrick Obot Foundation for Scientific Advancement (POFSA) has restated its commitment towards the development of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in Nigeria.
This is just as the foundation noted that it is set to organise the POFSA Science and Engineering Fair on February 16, 2025, in Akwa Ibom to showcase and honour secondary students who have honed their problem-solving and engineering skills.
Established in 2024 with the vision of inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders, POFSA has been instrumental in organising programmes that foster student engagement and teacher development in STEM education.
Led by Patrick Obot, a passionate advocate for STEM education whose research has positively impacted STEM education practices across Nigeria, POFSA has successfully hosted secondary school science fairs, STEM workshops, STEM advocacy programmes, and public lectures in schools which reinforce the foundation’s commitment to advancing STEM education in Nigeria.
The foundation noted that the science and engineering fair will be opened to secondary school students to showcase their innovative science and engineering projects, adding that their projects will be assessed by a panel of expert judges.
It also said the event will offer them an avenue to network with peers and engage in interactive STEM workshops.
It listed the categories of expected participants to include secondary school students (ages 12-18) interested in STEM fields, teachers and STEM educators, parents and guardians, local business leaders and potential sponsors as well as university representatives and STEM professionals.
A press statement issued by the foundation on the programme details read: “Students will exhibit projects ranging from robotics to environmental science, showcasing their problem-solving, engineering and research skills.
“Interactive sessions led by industry professionals and university scholars on cutting-edge technologies and career pathways in STEM.
“Recognition for the top three projects in both junior and senior categories, with prizes and scholarships for winners.
“Attendees will have the chance to connect with STEM professionals, university admissions teams, and potential mentors.”
The foundation said the fair will build on the successes of its previous programmes held earlier in the year, including the STEM advocacy programme at Secondary Grammar School, Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State which was held in June as part of its efforts to promote STEM education in secondary schools in the country.
It also noted that it empowered science teachers of secondary schools in Ibadan, Oyo State and Epe, Lagos State in March and April respectively where they were equipped with innovative and effective teaching strategies to enhance science education.
The two training programmes followed the capacity building of secondary school students during a science-oriented programme at Orimedu Community Grammar School, in January which was aimed at promoting the usefulness and application of science among secondary school students as well as to encourage and motivate students to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Through its various initiatives which aim to promote STEM education, the Patrick Obot Foundation for Scientific Advancement (POFSA) said it will continue to make significant impacts in Nigeria in the area of STEM education.
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