The Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr Hamid Bobboyi, has reaffirmed Federal Government’s commitment to promote the teaching and learning of science and technology education in the country.
Bobboyi, who disclosed this at a workshop on the development of Modules from Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics (STEAM) manual for teachers in basic education, emphasised the need to inculcate technical skills, nurture creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills in learners.
He noted that in the past, emphasis used to be laid on Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), reminding that in life, arts and humanity are equally important, hence the need to integrate them.
Bobboyi explained that the workshop was organised for the team of experts to develop modules that would infuse arts in the teaching of science and technology in schools in Nigeria.
The UBEC chief, who was represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary, Technical, Prof Bala Zakari, said the meeting was a significant step in its mission to enhance the quality of basic education and also guide teachers on ways to apply the STEAM manual in the classroom.
He said: “The integration of STEAM into our curriculum is not just to foster technical skills; it will also revolutionise our educational system, nurture creativity, critical thinking and inculcate problem-solving skills in learners.
“This holistic approach will prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century and equip them to thrive in our rapidly evolving world,” he added.
Bobboyi said the rigorous process the government had gone through on the incorporation of STEAM into basic education, would assist learners to be well grounded and also make them more resourceful from early age to adulthood, while also promoting entrepreneurship and improve development in the society at large.
“Through these initiatives, we will create modules from the developed STEAM manual that will be a working tool for our teachers in the classroom. The commission will encourage interdisciplinary approaches, project-based learning and community engagements,” he said.
Bobboyi urged the participants to collaborate, share insights and develop a comprehensive, engaging and inclusive module that would inspire both educators and learners.
Director, Academic Services, UBEC, Mrs Roseline Medubi, said the introduction of STEAM education into public schools would help to fast track the achievement of the pillars of the ministerial strategic plan, which would also prepare learners for lifelong learning as enshrined in the objectives of the Universal Basic Education programme.
Prof. Mabel Evwierhoma of Department of Theatre Arts, University of Abuja, said the integration of arts into teaching of science and technology was critical in ensuring that students studying science also appreciate the arts components – the cultural aspects, and indigenous knowledge systems, among others.
She added that this would make arts students or pupils embrace basic science and other aspects of technology in order to drive innovation, hands-on learning and practicals.
