Nigeria, Japan sign MoU for promotion of Mathematics, Sciences

[TheNation]

 The Federal Ministry of Education and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen Mathematics and Science (SMASE) in the country.

Minister of State for Education Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, according to a statement by his Special Assistant (Media), Mr. Simeon Nwakaudu, signed on behalf of the ministry.

JICA  Mid-Term Review Mission Leader, Satoru Takahashi,  signed on behalf of the Japanese government.

Wike said the Federal Government is determined to enhance the quality of science and Mathematics education.

He said the government was cooperating with the Japanese government to train Nigerian Science and Mathematics teachers, saying sciences  and Mathematics form the bedrock of technological development of any nation.

Wike said: “I am personally involved in this National Steering Committee because of the importance that the Federal Government attaches to the improvement of Science and Mathematics education. We have prevailed on the Japanese government not to wind down the programme by 2013, so that the overall objectives of initiating the programme will not be defeated.

“The report of the Mid Term Review Mission just signed this afternoon is a confirmation of our dedication and that of JICA to make positive progress as regards science and Mathematics education. We believe from the position of JICA that the date of the winding down of the programme would be extended beyond 2013, whilst the states of implementation will go beyond the first three pilot states to six states.”

Takahashi expressed satisfaction with the commitment shown by the minister  to revive the SMASE programme to benefit Nigerian students.

He said JICA is considering reviewing its winding up date because of the renewed interest shown by the Ministry of Education, States and other agencies of the Federal Government implementing the programme.

He said the Japanese government is encouraged by the actions of the Minister of State for Education to ensure the success of the programme.



TheNation