According to a report by Daily Trust, IHS Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing science and technology education through the second edition of STEM Fest Africa, a programme designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The festival, held at the Ilorin Innovation Hub, brought together primary and secondary school students from Kwara State for immersive learning experiences aimed at preparing them for careers in emerging technologies.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, Titilope Oguntuga, said the initiative aligns with the company’s sustainability pillars of education and economic growth by creating learning opportunities for young people across Nigeria.
The festival, convened by Titi Adewusi, Co Founder of 9ijakids and STEM Africa Fest, featured eight specialised learning laboratories where students participated in practical sessions on Artificial Intelligence, robotics, electronics, engineering, drones, chess, 3D printing, science experiments and interactive museum exhibitions.
Adewusi said the festival was designed to prepare children not only for today’s technological landscape but also for future innovations.
She explained that the goal is to equip children with the skills, exposure and opportunities they need to thrive in an evolving world, adding that while technology will continue to change, critical thinking, creativity, problem solving and the ability to learn will remain essential.
According to her, the programme encourages children to engage directly with technology by building, experimenting and imagining solutions to real world challenges.
Oguntuga said the initiative provides students with practical experiences that help them discover their talents, understand emerging technologies and develop the skills required to become future innovators capable of addressing challenges in Nigeria and beyond.
Representing the Minister of Education, the Special Adviser on Secondary Education, Dr Adetola Salau, described STEM Fest as a strategic platform for nurturing the next generation of problem solvers, innovators and technology leaders.
She said countries seeking long term prosperity cannot afford to treat science, technology and skills development as optional, noting that nations investing in innovation are better positioned to compete in the 21st century global economy.
Salau added that the festival offers students opportunities to participate in practical projects, exhibitions, competitions and networking activities, enabling them to see themselves not just as consumers of technology but as creators of solutions in agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure and governance.
She stressed that every Nigerian child, regardless of background, deserves access to quality STEM education, adding that initiatives such as STEM Fest promote curiosity, creativity and experimentation while preparing young people for leadership and entrepreneurship.
Salau commended IHS Nigeria, its partners and participating schools for supporting the initiative and reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to programmes that expand access to quality STEM education across the country.
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