Develop Agricultural Methods to Tackle Recession, Wike Tasks Scientists

Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has challenged scientists in Nigeria to find ways of resolving the economic recession by introducing innovative agriculture methods that will help grow the economy.

Addressing the opening session of the 60th anniversary of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) in Port Harcourt, Wike said new methods in agriculture would help generate employment for the people.

The governor, who was represented by the state Head of Service, Mr Rufus Godwins, said: “Iconic developments across the world are birthed in science. The doors of science are ever open for better knowledge.

“The challenge of the conference is to find ways of resolving issues negating the development of the country. We are in recession. This is the time for scientists to find ways of using agriculture to assist the country exit this economic downturn.”

He said the theme of the conference: ‘Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Society,’ is apt because all technological and engineering developments are products of science.

He commended the leadership of STAN for choosing Rivers State for the association’s 60th Anniversary, pointing out that the group joined the long list of those who have made the state a destination choice.
He said: “It is quite interesting that STAN took a cue from other local and international event organisers, who prefer Port Harcourt.

“In the past two years, following the rebranding of Rivers State through the vision of Governor Wike, Rivers State has steadily become the destination choice for local, continental and international conferences.”
STAN President, Mohammed Moulud, thanked the governor for his support towards the hosting of the 60th anniversary.

He said the state government’s sponsorship of 400 science teachers to attend workshops during the conference exemplifies his commitment to science education.
Highpoint of the opening session was the investiture of Wike as the Patron of STAN.

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