The wife of Ogun State governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, has described education as the key to unlock the potential of the youth and empower them to become agents of change in the society.
The First Lady spoke at the training programme where a total of 5,043 secondary school students in the state were trained on a counting machine, Abacus, to solve Mathematical calculations.
The programme was organised by the International Academy for the Gifted (IAGIFTED), in collaboration with Ogun State Government, held at Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Speaking about the programme, the wife of the Ogun state governor, said it is imperative to encourage learners to adopt the usage of abacus skills for mathematical calculations, noting that it would not only enable them to compete favourably with their mates in other nations of the world but also take educational system to a higher pedestal.
Mrs Abiodun stated that Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) education is not only essential for personal and professional development, but also for driving innovation and economic goals, hence the reason for Prince Dapo Abiodun government’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to effective STEAM teaching.
Expressing gratitude to the organiser of the programme, Professor Adewale Solarin, which was to commemorate his 70th birthday celebration for his foresightedness in championing STEAM education and for putting Ogun State on the world field, she said, “I am pledging my full support to this great vision of yours.”
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Science & Technology, Ogun State, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, described Professor Solarin as an academic par excellence appreciating his contributions to the academia, efforts and shared vision.
Also extolling Professor Solarin, the vice chancellor of Tai Solarin University of Education, Professor Oluwole Banjo, affirmed that the feat he had recorded in his chosen field, and his contribution to national development will remain indelible.
Responding, the visionary of the programme and chairman of IAGIFTED, Professor Solarin explained that the selected learners were gathered to form the Largest Mathematics Lesson Class, as well as to teach them on the simultaneous usage of Asian Abacus with both hands, in order to develop both sides of their brain in solving Mathematical problems.
He said the event was organised to mark his 70th birthday and retirement from active academic service.
The highlight of the programme included competition on usage of abacus machines, where Isaac Rilwan and Damaris Oyediran won the male and female categories respectively and were presented with trophies as King and Queen of STEAM.
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