Kano Commemorates World Science Day With Pledges To Establish CBT Centres in All 44 LGAs

Kano Commemorates World Science Day with Pledges to Establish CBT/ICT Centres in All 44 LGAs

By Hussaini Ibrahim Kafi

..To invest heavily in tech sector, driving innovation and societal progress

Kano State Government, through the Ministry of Science, Technology, anInnovation, recently marked the 2024 Science and Technology Week and World Science Day with a commitment to establish Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centres across all 44 local government areas of the state.

Themed *‘Global Science with Global Wellbeing,’* the event brought together government officials, industry experts, and students from various science schools to celebrate the annual occasion, held from November 8 to 11, 2024, at the Kano State Government House, Coronation Hall.

The State Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo Othman, made the announcement during his speech, emphasizing the pivotal role of science and technology in fostering innovation and societal advancement.

“We are setting up Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and ICT Centres in each of the 44 Local Government Areas, with a pilot project launching this year,” said the Commissioner. “Starting next year, we will also initiate the development of ICT and industrial parks in our rapidly growing urban centers. These parks will serve as hubs of innovation, providing opportunities and helping to reduce the rate of rural-urban migration among our youth.”

Alhaji Othman further outlined his ministry’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for science and technology in Kano State, which includes plans to integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education into the school curriculum. “We are actively collaborating with the Ministry of Education to ensure that STEM subjects are introduced at an early stage in schools. This will help lay a solid foundation for the next generation of innovators,” he added.

The Commissioner also expressed his appreciation for the achievements of Kano’s scientists, engineers, educators, and innovators. “This week of activities has given us the chance to reflect on the exceptional contributions made by individuals in the fields of science and technology. My ministry is dedicated to creating an environment where innovation and creativity can flourish.”

As the state’s lead agency for all science, technology, and ICT programs, the Ministry is working diligently to fulfill its core mandates by partnering with relevant stakeholders. “Our ongoing collaborations with ministries, agencies, and private sector players who share our vision of a technologically advanced and prosperous Kano State are testament to our commitment,” he stated.

Hon. Tajo also expressed gratitude to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his unwavering support and dedication to the advancement of the science and technology sector in the state.

The 2024 Science and Technology Week featured a series of events, including competitions, presentations, and exhibitions, attracting a diverse audience of students, researchers, innovators, and industry professionals. The occasion also honored individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of science and technology in Kano State, including: Professor Dr. Musa Borodo, Professor Abdullahi Uba Adamu, Engr. Dr. M.B. Shehu, Dr. Hauwa Musa Abdullahi and Alhaji Tajudden Gambo.