By MyEngineers
The immediate Past Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ibadan Branch, Engr. Ibraheem Folarin Bello, FNSE, has donated laboratory equipment to Ibadan City Academy, Eleta, Ibadan, as part of efforts to strengthen science education and promote practical learning among students.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony at the school, Bello, drawing on his leadership experience within the engineering profession, said the donation was aimed at improving the quality of science education and exposing students to hands-on learning experiences that would better prepare them for future careers in science, technology and engineering.
According to him, education remains one of the most effective tools for national development, while science education serves as a critical driver of technological advancement and innovation.
He noted that the donated equipment would give students the opportunity to engage in experimentation, observation and scientific discovery beyond what is obtainable from textbooks alone.
Speaking in his capacity as a senior voice within the NSE, Bello stressed the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the 21st century, describing it as the foundation for producing innovators, inventors, scientists, engineers and technology leaders capable of transforming society.
He said nations that prioritise STEM education are better positioned to achieve economic growth, industrial development and global competitiveness, noting that he has consistently advocated for STEM education and engineering development through various initiatives undertaken during and since his tenure leading the NSE’s Ibadan Branch.
Addressing students, particularly those in Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and NECO, he urged them to remain focused on their studies and strive for excellence.
He also advised school leavers awaiting admission into tertiary institutions to acquire vocational and technical skills such as computer programming, graphic design, artificial intelligence, electrical installation, electronics repair, digital marketing, welding, tailoring and carpentry, stressing that academic qualifications and technical skills should complement one another.
Bello further encouraged students interested in engineering to pursue the profession, describing it as a noble field that provides solutions to societal challenges through innovation and creativity. As a former leader of the engineering community in Ibadan, he emphasised the need for a new generation of engineers capable of driving infrastructure development, technological advancement and sustainable growth in Nigeria.
He commended the management and teachers of Ibadan City Academy for their commitment to academic excellence and character development, noting that their efforts were helping to shape future leaders, scientists and engineers.
The former NSE Ibadan Branch chairman expressed optimism that the donated laboratory equipment would significantly enhance the teaching and learning of science subjects in the school and inspire more students to pursue STEM-related careers.
Bello, who serves as Regional Transmission Operations Coordinator (RTOC) of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Osogbo Region, is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and has held several leadership positions within the engineering profession, including his recent tenure as Chairman of the NSE Ibadan Branch.