The Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr Halilu Ahmad Shaba has said the Space Agency is open to training aspiring students to become part of the Nigerian astronaut team set to embark on a space mission by 2030.
He made the statement during the opening ceremony, of the 2024 Science Day, organized by the marketing arm of NASRDA, GEOAPPS Plus Limited, themed, ‘Catch them Young’, at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
Expressing his delight at the event’s focus on nurturing young talents, Dr. Shaba reiterated NASRDA’s readiness to mentor and equip interested students with the necessary skills to contribute to the mission of sending a Nigerian astronaut into space within the next six years.
This initiative, he said, highlights the agency’s dedication to fostering scientific curiosity and exploration among the youths.
Stressing the significance of active engagement, Dr. Shaba urged students to fully embrace their learning experiences by being attentive and proactive so as to prepare them for their future endeavors.
The NASRDA Boss encouraged the participants to visit the Agency as frequently as possible to get more acquainted with the nitty gritty of Space Science and Technology.
Speaking earlier at the event, the convener and acting Managing Director, Geoapps Plus Limited, Mr. Emmanuel Onwubuariri, stated that the essence of the program was to inspire the next generation to delve into the world of space science and technology.
He added that there’s a need to actively engage the interests of the children, as they are the generation capable of bringing Space-based solutions to the challenges of the future.
Mr. Onwubuariri expressed appreciation to the Director General, members of the Educational Board, and students present for their dedication and commitment to advancing scientific exploration and education.
Also in attendance was the Acting Director, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Engr. John Nwagwu stressed the need for participants to embrace Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
The program, which played host to 10 schools across Abuja and had directors and deputy directors of NASRDA as facilitators, also took participants through a series of presentations, quizzes, astronomical videos and a tour of the Agency’s Museum and ground station.
The Science Day program serves as a platform for promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation of scientists and astronauts in Nigeria. Below are some sights from the event
Ninma Yacim ,Media and Corporate Communications Department
