The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Federal Colleges of Education and Related Institutions, Mr Adamu Tanko, has advocated more investments in applicable knowledge, especially in the area of artificial intelligence.
It was gathered reports that Tanko, who represents Suleja, Tafa and Gurara Federal Constituency of Niger, spoke in Kaduna on Wednesday.
He made the call while declaring open a seven-day workshop for Mathematics and Science teachers of Police Primary and Secondary Schools.
It was organised by the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
The chairman charged the participants to be creative and find ways to catch-up with the rest of the world.
Tanko expressed determination that with investments in the area of science and technology that would be achievable.
He said, “I am most delighted to be part of the event holding and my presence has underscored the importance of education accorded by the 10th House of Representatives.”
Tanko emphasised the importance of education and informed the gathering that the 10th Assembly will continue to support motions that will bring about positive change in the country.
He said that the initiative would improve the quality of Mathematics and Sciences, urging the participants to actively participate in the event.
This, the lawmaker said, would make a significant impact on the learning outcome of the pupils and students in their various schools.
The Director and Chief Executive of NTI, Prof. Musa Garba-Maitafsir said the overall aim of the ‘Strengthening Mathematics and Science Education (SMASE) Nigeria programme was to upgrade the teaching skills of the teachers.
He said, “This is in agreement with the provision of National Policy on Education (FGN, 2013), which emphasises a paradigm shift in educational practices from teacher-centeredness to learner-centeredness.
“It is also to enhance their performances in subject mastery, pedagogical skills, resource utilisation as well as pupils/students’ participation and engagement in the classroom.”
Garba-Maitafsir urged the participants to share ideas and knowledge, through what he described as “minds-on hands-on, and hearts-on activities.”
“So as to improve classroom engagement and ensure effective step-down of the skills of fellow teachers,” he added.
In his goodwill message, the representative of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mr Aleshin Olumayowa, emphasised that the training of Mathematics and Sciences was very special.
Also, the Police Force Education Officer, Kaduna Command, ACP Ibidayo Olubuyi, while appreciating NTI, urged the participants to assimilate the training so that maximum and positive impact can be recorded.