The Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Adepoju has affirmed the agency’s dedication to inspire and support the grooming of the next generation of space scientists and explorers.
He made this statement during a meet and greet organized by the agency to receive the SERA astronaut, Mr. Victor Hespenia at NASRDA Headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Adepoju emphasized that opportunities for students to meet, interact with, and learn from an astronaut, can significantly open up their minds to new possibilities in space science and technology. The Director General, while welcoming the pupils, described them as the next generation of space travelers, adding that with the support of the Honorable Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, NASRDA is committed to achieving its ambitious goals. The NASRDA boss also stated that the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) to send a Nigerian to space is an attestation to this commitment. He encouraged the students to participate actively in all activities and engage with the astronaut, stating that such opportunities are rare. In his welcome speech, the Acting Director, Physical and Life Sciences, Dr. Benjamin Ayantunji, appreciated the various schools’ management for allowing the students to be part of the program despite short notice. He reiterated the significance of the MOU signed, saying it is a step towards democratizing space for Nigeria. Dr. Ayantunji urged the students to make the most of the opportunity, engage with Mr. Victor and foster a spirit of learning. In his speech, the first SERA, and Brazilian second astronaut, Mr. Victor Hespenia, shared his inspiring story of his journey to space, describing how it seemed like an impossible dream for him, but joining a space community, changed his perception and helped him realize his dream, and those who thought space was impossible began to believe him. He encouraged the students to hold on to their dreams and assured them that Nigeria would soon have its own representative in space. The event featured an interactive session where students asked insightful questions about astronomy, followed by quiz competitions among various schools.
Below are pictures for your viewing pleasure.
Grace Jacob,
Media and Corporate Communications.
