The National Space Research and Development Agency has called on school administrators nationwide to leverage space education programmes to prepare students for careers in space science and technology.

Matthew Adepoju, director-general of NASRDA, gave the charge at the second graduation ceremony of the Pathway to Space Programme.

The programme was organised by the Future African Space Explorers STEM Academy in Lugbe, Abuja.

Mr. Adepoju, represented by Olayinka Fagbero, an assistant director at the agency, stated that the initiative was designed to engage students early by creating awareness and stimulating interest in space education among African students.

The programme, which was organised physically and virtually, had participants from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Mr Adepoju revealed that, beginning with the third edition of the programme, NASRDA would coordinate the participation of Nigerian students in the event.

According to him, the space agency plans to send invitations to schools to join the programme, as it is very interested in encouraging young people to embrace space science and technology.

”This is an opportunity for us to get them to be part of a programme that is designed to shape their career path.

”In the next cohort coming up in 2026, we are hoping to have as many schools as possible, because it is something that is open and free,” he said.

Speaking in her capacity as FASESA country coordinator, Ms Fagbero said the programme had an increase of about 400 students compared to 70 in 2024.

She explained that participation in the programme only required internet connectivity and a device, adding that, in view of this, FASESA targets thousands of students across the country.

She expressed hope that more schools across the country would join the programme to build a strong community of future African scientists and space explorers.

Similarly, Sean Jacobs, executive director of FASESA, stated that the initiative aimed to integrate space exploration into African classrooms, preparing young learners for careers in the global space sector.

According to him, FASESA, through partnerships with global aerospace companies like Boeing and stakeholders such as NASRDA, is providing resources and facilities to help students understand space and its career opportunities.

“We need to make our students understand that space is not only dedicated to being an astronaut but also to the impressive development of our space applications. We want our students to understand that for them to contribute to the global policymaking initiative, they need to understand what the space sector is,” he said.

Speaking on his experience with Nigerian students, Mr Jacobs said he was impressed by their intelligence and enthusiasm.

“We have very smart kids in Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia. What they need is a community of support involving government, parents, and schools,” he added.

Christopher Akinsowan, the principal of the school, urged the students to seize the opportunity to broaden their scope of career pursuits, adding that space science and technology were particularly interesting fields.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates of participation to students who participated in the programme.

(NAN)