The Cross River State Government has taken its 2026 World Science Day celebration to Ogoja in the northern senatorial district, engaging students in practical science education, technology demonstrations and innovation challenges to stimulate creativity, scientific curiosity and problem-solving skills among young people.
Organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MSTI), the event featured interactive science education, practical experiments, innovation exhibitions and hands-on training in emerging technology fields, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding, hardware and software development. In an opening address, the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Associate Professor Justin Beshel, represented by the Ministry’s ICT Manager, Mrs. Mary Leo, welcomed participants to the celebration themed “Common Ground Through Science.”
Beshel described science as more than a subject taught in classrooms, noting that it provides the knowledge and tools needed to understand the world, solve societal problems, improve livelihoods and create opportunities. “Science is more than a subject taught in classrooms; it is a tool for understanding our world, solving problems, improving livelihoods and creating opportunities. Our young people must be encouraged to see themselves as active participants in scientific discovery and innovation,” he said.
He explained that the theme emphasised how people, irrespective of their backgrounds, geographical locations and differences, could find common solutions to shared challenges through scientific inquiry, collaboration and innovation. The Commissioner said the decision to host this year’s celebration in Ogoja was informed by the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of location, has the opportunity to explore, experiment, ask questions, develop ideas and discover their potential.
“Our decision to take this year’s celebration to Ogoja reflects our commitment to ensuring that every child, irrespective of geographical location, has access to opportunities to explore, experiment, develop ideas and discover their potential,” Beshel stated. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive science education and described young people as important contributors to present-day innovation, adding that the programme was designed to complement classroom theories with practical experiences. He also highlighted the state’s efforts to expand digital literacy, strengthen technological capacity, encourage innovation and improve access to digital opportunities.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, represented by the Supervisor for Health, Mr. David Ilom, appreciated the state government and the Ministries of Science, Technology and Innovation and Education for bringing the celebration to the northern part of the state. He urged the students to take the programme seriously and maximise the learning opportunities provided. “We appreciate the state government for bringing this important programme to our students. I encourage the beneficiaries to take the lessons seriously and make good use of the opportunities provided,” Ilom said, while recommending that future editions should rotate among different parts of the state to ensure wider participation.
A major highlight of the celebration was a science presentation by the Ministry’s Chief Scientist, Mr. Edwin Adie, titled “From Stream to Smart Borehole.” The presentation examined the evolution of water access and delivery systems, showing how scientific discoveries, engineering and technological advancements have improved access to potable water over the years. Adie traced the progression from traditional methods of fetching water from streams and rivers to the use of wells, boreholes and electrically powered water-pumping systems.
More than eight participating schools showcased their scientific knowledge, creativity and innovative ideas through mini science exhibitions. At the end of the exhibition, Government Technical College (GTC), Ogoja, emerged first, while Federal Science College, Ogoja, secured second position and Bendi Technical College, Obanliku, came third. The three outstanding schools received cash prizes in recognition of their creativity, innovation and participation.
The students also participated in practical training sessions covering Artificial Intelligence, hardware, coding and software development. The Ministry’s ICT team demonstrated experiments involving hydrogen gas and a water fountain, providing participants with hands-on exposure to scientific processes and encouraging them to develop greater interest in science, technology and innovation.
The technical demonstrations further exposed the students to computer systems, CPU connections and basic computer repair techniques, equipping them with practical knowledge of hardware operations and maintenance. These activities provided opportunities for participants to connect scientific theories with real-life applications and explore possible areas of technological innovation.
As part of the celebration, scientific souvenirs were presented to participating schools and students as educational materials to support their studies and encourage continued interest in science. The three best-performing schools also received cash awards for their outstanding contributions to the science exhibition, while the programme provided a platform for students to demonstrate their talents and appreciate the practical value of scientific knowledge.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Education Secretary of Ogoja Local Government Area, Mr. Ernest Otung, and the Principal of Government Technical College, Atakpa, Ogoja, Mr. Mobu John. The celebration formed part of the Ministry’s efforts to promote inclusive science education, expand practical learning opportunities and inspire young people across Cross River State to embrace science, technology and innovation as tools for solving societal challenges.
By Orok Orok
