Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has called for increased investments in science and technology for the nation to experience rapid development.

Speaking at the Government House Port Harcourt on Tuesday when he granted audience to National Executive Council of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), Governor Wike expressed regret that the Federal Government is yet to give the sciences, the priority attention they deserve.

He said that science teachers should be encouraged with necessary incentives to carry out their responsibilities of preparing Nigerian children for developmental roles.

“Nigeria cannot develop unless the nation invests in the teaching of science and mathematics at all levels. That is the way to go.

“We cannot talk of Development without science and mathematics. There must be the needed encouragement and incentives for teachers of mathematics.”

The governor commended STAN for their contributions to the development of science education over the last six decades.

He informed that his administration has invested in the equipping of science laboratories in selected schools to ensure that students have practical knowledge.

He directed the sponsorship of 400 science teachers for the ongoing workshop in the state. He noted that such workshops will improve their capacity to impact knowledge.

Earlier, the President of STAN, Mr Mohammed Moulud, commended the efforts of the Rivers State Government in enhancing the quality of delivery of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education in the state schools.

He noted that STAN is repositioning itself for more effective roles in the professional development of science, technology, engineering and mathematics teachers.

The Science Teachers are in Rivers State for the 60th Anniversary of STAN. (Channels TV)