The Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, has alleged that there is a decline in the interest by Nigerian youth to study science and science-related courses.
The minister stated that the government is ready to address this phenomenon through the ‘’Catching them Young’’ initiative offered by the ministry.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the ministry, Abdul Ganiyu Aminu, Mr Onu said this while addressing young scientists at the final examination of the Young Nigerian Scientists Presidential Award (YONSPA) on Monday.
According to him, the essence of the YOSPA is to dispel fear amongst students who had the notion that science is a difficult subject to study, assuring that the future is now bright for those who embrace a career in Science, Technology and Innovation.
“The programme will help them to explore the moon, heavenly bodies, ocean wealth in order to reduce poverty and contribute to solving major national regional and international programs,” he said.