Plateau State, Nigeria – November 10, 2025
The Plateau State Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation hosted a remarkable celebration of World Science Day for Peace and Development at Odilins Event Center Jos, bringing together government officials, innovators, students, and industry leaders under the
theme:”Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for the Future.”
The event showcased the state’s commitment to advancing science education and fostering innovation while inspiring the next generation of scientists and technologists.
The event was officially opened with remarks from His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State, delivered by Hon. Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation.
In his opening address, Governor Mutfwang (represented) acknowledged the historic significance of the event:
“This is the first time in over thirteen years that Plateau State is hosting this celebration in such a structured and impactful manner, and it is indeed commendable.”
The Governor emphasized the central role of science in modern development: “Science, technology, and innovation are at the heart of transformation in today’s world. As the keynote speaker rightly emphasized, we are the architects of our own future. No one will create the future we desire for us it is our responsibility to shape it.”
He congratulated the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation for their continued efforts in positioning Plateau among the community of technologically driven states, before officially declaring the celebration open “to the glory of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.”
The celebration also featured encouraging messages from key stakeholders across Plateau State’s education and technology sectors:
Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, Hon. Commissioner for Science, Technology & Innovation:
“We are proud to associate with this year’s World Science Day, promoting innovation and collaboration for a better future.”
Chairman, PLATEC:
“Plateau State ICT Development Agency remains committed to driving technology and innovation that empower our youths.”
Mr. Datong Dominic Gwaman, Director General, PICTDA:
“We celebrate the spirit of innovation shaping the future of science and technology across Plateau State.”
Rector, Plateau State Polytechnic:
“Education and innovation are the twin pillars of progress — and Plateau State Polytechnic is proud to be part of this celebration.”
Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Education (Represented by Dr. John Iliya):
“The Ministry of Education commends this initiative for inspiring creativity, learning, and scientific excellence among young people.”
The event was also graced by the presence of His Royal Highness, the Gbong Gwon, who offered his blessings and support for the initiative.
Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk delivered an insightful lecture titled “The Efforts of the State Towards Science Education,” highlighting the significant strides Plateau State has made in promoting STEM education.
“More than two-thirds of the participants here today are students,” Dr. Shurkuk noted. “This is deliberate, because they represent our future. This program was designed with them in mind to inspire, inform, and empower the next generation of innovators.”
The Hackathon Project – A flagship collaboration between the Ministry and educational institutions, providing students with platforms to identify environmental challenges and develop technology-driven solutions. The initiative has attracted participation from over 74 local companies across Nigeria.
Scholarship Programs – Under the leadership of the Executive Governor, outstanding Plateau State students have been awarded scholarships to study science-related courses abroad.
Innovation Profiling– The ministry is actively documenting and showcasing local innovations at national and international levels, ensuring Plateau’s creativity gains global recognition.
Dr. Shurkuk emphasized that in today’s world, science drives everything from healthcare improvements to climate change mitigation and security solutions. “For instance, advances in medicine and technology have brought about life-saving interventions, while scientific research is helping us tackle global challenges such as climate change and insecurity.”
Hon. Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation
When asked about his vision for the ministry, Dr. Shurkuk stated: “Our vision aligns with the overall agenda of His Excellency, the Executive Governor to build a smarter and more technologically driven Plateau. We are committed to using science, technology, and innovation to transform every sector of the state’s economy.”
He emphasized that the state government has awarded scholarships to outstanding students and is profiling local innovations for national and international recognition. “It is important for the world to see the creativity and talent that exist within our state.”
Mr. Gwaman outlined how his agency is driving digital transformation across Plateau State through practical applications of technology:
Education Monitoring System – An application that tracks student population, gender distribution, and infrastructure needs across schools.
Healthcare Data Systems – Technology that enables data-driven decisions, such as targeted distribution of mosquito-treated nets based on malaria prevalence.
Government Financial Management Information System (GFMIS)
An online platform for managing all government budgetary plans and expenditures, enhancing transparency and accountability.
On challenges, Gwaman cited funding and human capacity as major obstacles but expressed optimism: “Plateau people are intelligent and willing to learn. Once we create the right opportunities and training programs, they quickly adapt and contribute meaningfully.”
Mr. Bot announced a groundbreaking achievement: the first review of the State’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy in 20 years.
“The last policy was enacted in 2005 and mainly focused on computer procurement and outsourcing technological services. The new framework recognizes emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cloud technology, and local software development,” he explained.
The ministry has also created an open platform where innovators can register their innovations, systematically identifying and harnessing local talent. An upcoming Plateau State
STI Competition in January will provide a platform for young inventors to showcase their ideas.
Zang Global, a tech-based company, is transforming electronic waste into sustainable products such as power banks, solar lanterns, USB cables, and mobile phone chargers all locally produced.
“We transform discarded electronics into useful items. By recycling e-waste, we not only help reduce environmental pollution but also provide affordable and eco-friendly power solutions for our communities,” Zang explained.
His inspiration came from a failed experiment to build a “dream recorder,” which led him to discover opportunities in e-waste management. “Rather than see it as waste, I saw opportunity. That’s how Zang Global began turning waste into wealth and using innovation to drive a cleaner, greener Plateau State.”
A thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Clement S explored the theme: “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for the Future.”
Panelists:
- Stephanie Egbeziemi Ideho-Iraoya – Representative, HrisCare
- Zang Luka– CEO, Zang Tech
- Martina Danuk – Director, Climate Change, Ministry of Environment
- Representative from PICTDA
Martina Danuk emphasized observation: “In rural communities, people are cautious about adopting new technologies because they want to see evidence that it works for them. When people see tangible results in their environment, they will trust and adopt these innovations.”
Stephanie Egbeziemi noted that for women-led innovations, “trust begins with relevance and clarity. Solutions must be practical and address real-life challenges.”
Zang Luka stressed demonstration: “Communities will embrace technologies if the outcomes are clear and accessible. Demonstration is key.”
Panel Takeaways:
- Trust is foundational – People need tangible evidence that science works in practice
- Transformation requires demonstration– Innovations must be visible and relevant to local contexts
- Tomorrow depends on inclusion– Young innovators and community members must be engaged to adopt and sustain solutions
The event featured an exciting quiz competition anchored by Job Chundusu and conducted by Mr. Datcho, a Director in the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology.
Students from various science schools across Plateau State competed in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics, demonstrating their knowledge and quick thinking.
Quiz Winners:
- CKCC Shendam – 1st Position
- GHS Gindiri – 2nd Position
- Baptist High School – 3rd Position
- GSS Kuru – 4th Position
The quiz featured strict rules: 10 seconds for Biology and Chemistry questions, 15 seconds for Physics and Mathematics, with the Quiz Master’s decision being final.
Students were hosted from various science schools across Plateau State, including:
- Government Science School, Guratopp
- Girls High School, Gindiri
- CKCC Shendam
- Baptist High School
- GSS Kuru
And students from distant areas like Mangu and Shendam, who traveled specifically to participate in this celebration of science and innovation.
Mr. Peter Lamba Bot, mni, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all participants and partners. He encouraged everyone to visit the exhibition center to see innovations made entirely in Plateau State.
“Every product you’ll see there from natural medicines to technological prototypes is made right here in Plateau State by our own talented minds. We are proud to say that in Plateau, we are creating our own, developing our own, and making progress our own way.”
He thanked His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang Executive Governor of Plateau State, for his unwavering support, and Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk for his leadership and guidance.
“This program is a litmus test, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together. Though we are not perfect, we will continue to work towards excellence. Next year’s event will be bigger, better, and stronger by God’s grace.”
