Physics Day: Scholars Highlight Role of Science Education in National Development

Scholars across tertiary institutions have advocated greater investment in science laboratories and practical-based teaching methods to stimulate students' interest in Physics and promote technological advancement in Nigeria.

They made the call at the 5th Physics Day organised by the Department of Physics, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Crescent University, Abeokuta with the theme of this year's celebration is: "Physics: The Bedrock of Technology."

The Physics Day is an annual event organised by the Department of Physics, Crescent University, Abeokuta, to bring together stakeholders in the education sector to explore ways of advancing Physics education and research in the country.

The event, held at the Bola Ajibola Auditorium of the Institution attracted students from more than twenty secondary schools who competed in various academic fields.

Delivering a lecture titled, "Physics, Technology and the Tertiary Institutions: A Promising Future," a lecturer from the Department of Physics, Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, Dr Rasak Amusa, expressed concern over the declining interest of students in studying Physics, especially at the secondary school level.

Dr Amusa called for increased awareness and effective career guidance at the primary and secondary school levels to help students understand the relevance and opportunities available in Physics-related professions.

In another lecture titled, "The Invisible Bedrock: How Theoretical Physics Ideas Become Modern Technology," a Professor of Physics from the University of Ibadan, Professor Oluwole Oyewande, advocated greater investment in education. 

He identified the need to boost teacher empowerment, improved learning environments, scholarships and other incentives capable of encouraging students to pursue science and technology disciplines.

Professor Oyewande expressed optimism that exposing secondary school students to scientific ideas would help them appreciate the beauty of Physics and understand its critical role in technological advancement.

In separate remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Crescent University, Professor Ibraheem Gbajabiamila, alongside the Proprietor and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the institution, Prince Mahruf Adesegun Ajibola, urged young Nigerians to embrace science, innovation and technology as tools for addressing future national and global challenges.

Earlier, the Dean, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Dr Jadesola Sanusi, had described the annual event as a platform for intellectual engagement, scientific enlightenment, innovation and inspiration among young scholars.

The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of prizes to students who emerged winners in the various competitions as some participating students expressed appreciation to the management of Crescent University for sustaining the annual Physics Day celebration, which they described as inspiring and educational.