By Osaro Matthew

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) has called on Nigerian universities to include Astronomy in their curriculum.

Mr. Bonaventure Okere, Director of Basic Space Science and Astronomy at NASRDA, made the call during an interview on Friday, 7 June 2024, in Abuja.

He said NASRDA has been engaging universities across the country to see how they can include Astronomy in their curriculum, as only a few schools currently offer it as a course of study.

Clarifying the misconception some have about Astronomy, he said, “In Nigeria, we assume space science technology is all about satellite launching, which is looking down. We are not looking up, which is where you can develop your technology.”

Highlighting the benefits of universities including Astronomy in their curriculum, Mr. Okere said, “We need to invest in Astronomy because investing in Astronomy means investing in space science technology, and any nation that invests in Astronomy is keying into technology development.”

He also emphasized that graduates of Astronomy will have job opportunities if all universities include it in their curriculum, rather than them travelling abroad, which causes brain drain in that area.

“If our country has to key into technology advancement like in other climes, then we need to introduce Astronomy courses in our universities,” he added.

Support ACJ UNIBEN's goal of always bringing truth to light.

Excellent campus journalism requires financial support. Yet, it is this very journalism that contributes to an informed campus community, transparency in educational institutions, and an engaged student body. To continue offering free access to top-notch campus journalism, we invite you to consider making a modest contribution to this worthwhile endeavor. Your support for ACJ UNIBEN's campus journalism ensures its relevance and availability to all students, free of charge, fostering an informed and active campus community.

DONATE