June 25, 2026
The Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with the Nigerian Institute of Physics (NIP), Cross River State Chapter, in advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education across the state. The Commissioner made this known when the leadership of the Nigerian Institute of Physics, led by its State Chairman, Professor Anthony Ilozobhie, paid him a courtesy visit in his office. He commended the Institute’s commitment to improving science education through teacher capacity-building programmes and the organization of Physics quiz competitions for secondary school students.
Speaking during the visit, Professor Ilozobhie stated that the delegation was in the Ministry to appreciate Senator Odey’s outstanding leadership, visionary educational policies, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of education in Cross River State. According to him, since the inauguration of the current State Executive Council of the Institute, the Nigerian Institute of Physics has remained committed to promoting Physics education and strengthening science learning across the state.
He described Physics as the foundation of all sciences, explaining that while Mathematics provides the language for describing the universe, Physics applies that language to explain, test, and understand the physical world.
“Physics provides the framework for technological innovation, scientific discoveries, and societal advancement. From healthcare technologies and communication systems to space exploration and artificial intelligence, Physics remains central to modern development,” he said.
Professor Ilozobhie noted that despite its relevance, Physics is often perceived by students as difficult and abstract, a challenge that has contributed to declining interest in the subject among young learners.
To address this challenge, he presented a proposal to the Ministry for the implementation of two major initiatives:
- A Train-the-Trainer Workshop for Physics Teachers
- A Statewide Physics Quiz Competition for Secondary Schools
He explained that the proposed three-day Train-the-Trainer Workshop would bring together Physics teachers from public and private secondary schools across the eighteen Local Government Areas of the state. The programme is designed to strengthen teachers’ capacity through modern teaching methodologies, practical demonstrations, laboratory management techniques, curriculum implementation strategies, assessment methods, and the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as well as Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Physics education.
The objectives of the workshop, he said, include:
- Introducing innovative and learner-centered teaching methods;
- Improving laboratory management and practical instruction;
- Strengthening teachers’ capacity to mentor students for science competitions;
- Promoting the use of ICT and Artificial Intelligence in physics education; and
- Creating a strong network of physics educators across the state.
Professor Ilozobhie further disclosed that the proposed Statewide Physics Quiz Competition would engage students from all eighteen Local Government Areas, stimulate interest in science and technology, and encourage healthy academic competition among schools.
He emphasized that the initiatives align with the educational development agenda of Cross River State and the national drive toward STEM advancement, assuring the Ministry of the Institute’s commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure successful implementation.
As a mark of appreciation and recognition of his dedication to educational development, the Nigerian Institute of Physics presented Senator Odey with a specially designed commemorative plaque in recognition of his outstanding leadership, visionary policies, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence in Cross River State.
Senator Odey acknowledged the challenges confronting the teaching and learning of Physics, describing the subject as one many students often perceive as difficult and abstract.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry of Education has consistently partnered with professional bodies, educational institutions, and subject experts to organize workshops, seminars, and teacher development programmes aimed at improving learning outcomes across the state.
He recalled similar collaborations undertaken by the Ministry in the past and reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to educational growth and teacher effectiveness.
He further encouraged academics, researchers, and professionals to continue contributing their expertise to the development of education, emphasizing that collaboration remains a critical ingredient for sustainable educational progress.
Professor Odey assured the delegation of the Ministry’s prompt attention upon receipt of the proposal, stressing that teacher training and capacity development remain central pillars of the state’s educational reform agenda.
The visit ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration aimed at improving science education, inspiring innovation, and nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers, and technology-driven entrepreneurs in Cross River State.