Plateau State has joined the global community in commemorating the 2025 World Science Day for Peace and Development, with a state-wide event held at the University of St. Louis, Jos. This year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for the Future,” emphasized the importance of building public confidence in scientific solutions and preparing young people for future technological challenges.
The event was formally declared open on behalf of the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, by the Hon. Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk.
In his address, the Governor conveyed appreciation to organizers and participants, noting that this is the first time in more than thirteen years that Plateau State is hosting the World Science Day celebration in such a structured and impactful manner.
“Science, technology, and innovation are at the heart of transformation in today’s world. We are the architects of our own future, and no one will create the future we desire for us. It is our responsibility to shape it,” the Governor stated in his remarks.
He commended the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation for its ongoing reforms and urged continued investment in STEM education and innovation.
The Governor officially declared the 2025 World Science Day celebration open, “to the glory of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.”
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “The State’s Efforts Towards Science Education,” the Hon. Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, outlined the government’s recent strides in advancing STEM education and innovation. He highlighted the Plateau State Hackathon Initiative, which has engaged students in developing technology-driven solutions, with participation from over 70 local companies.
According to him, the state has also awarded scholarships to outstanding students to pursue science-related studies abroad, while local innovators are being profiled for national and international recognition.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives from key institutions, reaffirming support for technological advancement in the state:
NILEST: Commended the state for promoting innovation.
PLATEC: Reiterated its commitment to empowering youths through ICT.
PICTDA: Praised the growing culture of creativity in the tech ecosystem.
Plateau State Polytechnic: Emphasized education as a foundation for societal progress.
Ministry of Education: Encouraged continued investment in science learning.
The Gbong Gwom Jos also extended royal goodwill, urging the state to prioritize innovation-led development.
Speaking during an interview, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Peter Lamba Bot, announced that Plateau State’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy has been reviewed for the first time in 20 years to align with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital governance, and smart agriculture.
Meanwhile, PICTDA Director General, Mr. Datong Dominic Gwaman, disclosed ongoing digital transformation projects including applications for school data monitoring, health sector analytics, and the state’s Government Financial Management Information System (GFMIS), which enhances transparency in public finances.
Innovators showcased homegrown science and tech solutions, including Zang Global, a company converting electronic waste into functional devices such as solar lanterns and power banks.
Founder Mr. Zang Luka described the initiative as a response to environmental pollution and unreliable power supply, stressing the importance of practical science in solving everyday community challenges.
A panel discussion explored public trust in scientific solutions, emphasizing the need for visible results and community engagement to drive adoption of new technologies.
Students from various schools participated in a science quiz competition, with CKCC Sendam emerging first, followed by GHS Gindiri, Baptist High School, and GSS Kuru respectively.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Bot encouraged guests to tour the exhibition gallery showcasing Plateau-made innovations and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining science and technology-driven development.
