In response to the official invitation extended by the Ministry of Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy (MIST & DE), Osun State, the United Nations African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English (UN-ARCSSTE-E) through its Space Education Outreach and Programmes (SEOP) Division participated in the 2025 World Science Day (WSD) celebration held at the Olufunke Kolawole Lake Resort, Conference Hall, Government Secretariat, Osun State on November 10, 2025 themed “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050”.
World Science Day, proclaimed by UNESCO, is celebrated annually on November 10 to promote public understanding of science, foster scientific cooperation, and highlight the importance of science in addressing global challenges. The 2025 theme, “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050” underscored the critical role of science in preparing the next generation for emerging global issues and future innovations.
The Executive Director of UN-ARCSSTE-E, Engr. Dr. Seyi Festus Olatoyinbo, was ably represented by the Head of the SEOP Division, Dr. Samuel Anih. The presence of the UN-ARCSSTE-E at the event strengthened the Centre’s visibility and highlighted its ongoing commitment to advancing space science and technology education across Nigeria and Africa.
Upon arrival, the UN-ARCSSTE-E team began with an educative overview of the Centre’s academic programmes, research activities, and outreach initiatives to the participants at the event. This session served to enlighten students, teachers, and other stakeholders about the Centre’s mandates and available opportunities in space science, remote sensing, satellite communications, and other space-related fields. The UN-ARCSSTE-E team later facilitated an interactive exhibition session, where students, teachers and other participants engaged with UN-ARCSSTE-E on space science concepts through visual aids, mock-ups and demonstration materials. To support continued learning, each invited school received Space Education Series educational posters on various topics including Astronauts, Weightlessness, Deep Space & Exploration, Satellites, The Solar System, Robotics & Artificial Intelligence. These materials were designed to spark curiosity and promote long-term interests in space science and technology.
Dr. Anih granting an interview to NTA on the significance of WSD 2025 (left) and SEOP Team members distributing Educational Posters during the Exhibition Session (right)
The celebration was formally opened with a welcome address by the Permanent Secretary, MIST & DE, Mrs. Olufunke Bukola Jolayemi, who emphasized the importance of scientific literacy and Osun State’s commitment to science and technology development.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation, Science, Technology & Digital Economy, Hon. Azeez Badmus, delivered compelling remarks on how science can drive economic growth and sustainable development.
Representative of the Executive Director, Dr. Samuel Anih, delivered an insightful goodwill message acknowledging the Ministry’s dedication to promoting science education. He emphasized:
- The centrality of space science and innovation in shaping the future.
- The role of satellite technologies in environmental monitoring, disaster management, and sustainable development.
- Opportunities available to Nigerian students in space science.
- The importance of building scientific trust through transparency and evidence-based research.
Following the goodwill address, Dr. Anih delivered a presentation on Space Science, Technology and Innovation, which received strong engagement from students and educators. The question-and-answer session demonstrated the audience’s enthusiasm and growing interest in space-based research.
The event was attended by distinguished participants, including representatives from:
- Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN)
- Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC)
- Africa Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education (ARCSSTE-E)
- Ministry of Environment
- Rural Water and Environmental Sanitation Agency of Nigeria (RUWESA)
- Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI))
- Nigerian Meteorology Agency (NIMET)
- Ministry of Education (Science, Mathematics & Technical Departments)
- Technology Incubation Centres (TICs)
- NGOs and Media Organizations
Several secondary schools across Osun State were also in attendance, with students actively participating in learning, discussions, and competitions.
Prior to the WSD celebration, an essay competition was issued to participating schools on the theme “Trust, Transformation & Tomorrow.” During the event, the competition coordinator announced the winners and prizes were awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions. The award ceremony encouraged students’ creative expression and critical thinking on global scientific issues
The event concluded with light refreshments served to participants. The participation of UN-ARCSSTEE in the World Science Day 2025 celebration was impactful and aligned with the Centre’s mandate to promote space science education across Africa. The event provided a valuable platform for outreach, knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration for the next generation of scientists and innovators.
